A fine South Indian Malabar Coast tulwar with bronze casted handle and typical pommel. The quillons are semi-pointed and the knucklebow ends in the shape of a tail. The hilt is decorated with a hand-engraved disc and a relief pommel. The blade is slightly curved and has a fueller on both sides underneath the flat spine. The blade is engraved with a moon and stars and was most likely imported from Europe which happend a lot since the 17th century.

This example dates from the 18th century and is known as ”Kayamkulan Vaal” which stands for the Kayakulam (old formal rulers) and Vaal (sword). The sword dates from the Travancore rule which begun in 1729 and ended in 1846.

Condition: Good, minor ware on the hilt, the blade is worn and shows traces of pitting, but still good and hard.

Dimensions:
Hilt: 12cm
Blade: 79cm
Total length: 93cm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copyright by Peter Andeweg – 2020