KATAR FOR COMENTS

Jim McDougall · 2nd January 2006, 06:28 PM

Hi Fernando,
This katar is outstanding, mostly because of its untouched integrity. I agree completely with Jens and Battaras comments, and I think the assessment of Portuguese India, 18th century is probably entirely correct. Actually the reference to Portuguese has nothing to do with 'influence' but more to do with the blades commonly used which were often imported by the Portuguese. The region was as mentioned included the key trade center of Goa, and the Mahrattas were prevalent in these regions. Mahratta tribes were Hindu and situated initially in western and central India, with thier campaigns carrying their weapons and influence into many other regions in the subcontinent.

It would appear that the sidebars carry the Kundalini motif, which typically represents a flame as metaphysical symbolism which is well established in many cultures, especially, as in this case, Hindu. The complexities of this symbolism are best explained by those with far more understanding of these matters than I, but the motif is often seen on katars.

Excellent example Fernando!!
All the best,
Jim

2nd January 2006, 06:28 PM	#6
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,196	Hi Fernando, This katar is outstanding, mostly because of its untouched integrity. I agree completely with Jens and Battaras comments, and I think the assessment of Portuguese India, 18th century is probably entirely correct. Actually the reference to Portuguese has nothing to do with 'influence' but more to do with the blades commonly used which were often imported by the Portuguese. The region was as mentioned included the key trade center of Goa, and the Mahrattas were prevalent in these regions. Mahratta tribes were Hindu and situated initially in western and central India, with thier campaigns carrying their weapons and influence into many other regions in the subcontinent. It would appear that the sidebars carry the Kundalini motif, which typically represents a flame as metaphysical symbolism which is well established in many cultures, especially, as in this case, Hindu. The complexities of this symbolism are best explained by those with far more understanding of these matters than I, but the motif is often seen on katars. Excellent example Fernando!! All the best, Jim