Sosun pattah
This item has been sold.
Overall length

84.5 cm

Blade length

74 cm

Blade thickness

Base spine 9 mm

Middle spine 8 mm

5 cm from tip spine 5 mm

Blade width

Base 32 mm

Middle 30 mm

Widest 33 mm

5 cm from tip 15.5 mm

Weight

771 grams

Point of balance

16 cm from crossguard

Materials

Wootz-steel, iron, gold, resin

Origin

Punjab, probably Lahore

Dating

Circa 1800-1850

Provenance

Dutch antique art market

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Description

One of the most rare and sought-after Indian sword types, the sosun pattah -literally "lily leaf"- is characterized by a graceful forward curving blade. In this case, it is made of fine Persian wootz, highly prized for its bold patterns that stand out in high contrast. The blade has a T-shaped cross-section, the widened spine gives rigidity to the thin blade. The spine is engraved over its full length. At the base of the blade is floral engraving in Persian style.

The hilt is of typical Punjabi form, probably Lahore, with its vase-like grip section, forward inclined quillons, and the knuckle bow that terminates in a lotus bud. The style of the golden damascening, done with rather thin gold wire, is also typical for this region.

Lahore was the seat of the Sikh Empire between 1799–1849. The Sikh presence attracted many sword makers from far and wide to the city, producing arms for the Sikh armies.

 

Restoration

It comes in a recent polish by Philip Tom to re-reveal the fine wootz. Comes with a new resting scabbard.

Sosun pattah with resting scabbard

 

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Sosun pattah
Sosun pattah

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