scarce Indian dagger bichwa Vajra mushti with blade

 A scarce form of Indian dagger based on a type of punching weapon or knuckleduster as they are known in more modern times. This example has a a steel blade fitted to the bottom making it more of a war type, although there are many forms and variation of this weapon. The whole is made from steel, and is surmounted by two birds suggesting a Tanjore origin for the piece. The grip is tightly style so as to fit the fingers closely and the offensive side has a steel bar to make contact. The blade is very thick and styled with deep fullering to make it a strong recurved spike. 24 cms long approx. This is an old piece probably 17th century or earlier.