The Indian PATA and the mysterious MANOPLE

Jim McDougall · Yesterday, 06:27 AM

Thank you so much for writing on this Nidhi! It is great to have your insights as your expertise in the history of these Indian arms is well established. As agreed this hilt is 'modern' but likely aligned with the Vaishnavism tradition of South India, and with the venerated old Scottish/German blade possibly placed in accord with these traditions.

Your note on the pata used on Mahratta vessels is pretty exciting, and in studies on the use of many forms of 'exotic' weapons used on many merchant vessels, and perhaps on the pirate vessels that preyed upon them is intriguing.

All the best
Jim

Yesterday, 06:27 AM	#8
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,585	Thank you so much for writing on this Nidhi! It is great to have your insights as your expertise in the history of these Indian arms is well established. As agreed this hilt is 'modern' but likely aligned with the Vaishnavism tradition of South India, and with the venerated old Scottish/German blade possibly placed in accord with these traditions. Your note on the pata used on Mahratta vessels is pretty exciting, and in studies on the use of many forms of 'exotic' weapons used on many merchant vessels, and perhaps on the pirate vessels that preyed upon them is intriguing. All the best Jim