Gilded Sinhalese Kasthane

The ‘Kasthane’ or ‘Kastane’ is the national sword of Sri Lanka and has its origin in the early modern age following European aesthetic influences. A few materials are usually seen on Sinhalese arms; coral, rhino horn, gold, silver, brass and gemstones. The best made examples were made in the royal workshops in the kingdom of Kandy and show the most magnificent craftsmanship available within the culture.

The hilt:

Executed in the classical Sinhalese style, this exceptional hilt features a large cast bronze lion’s head, serving as its focal point. The lion’s fierce expression is masterfully rendered, with pronounced features such as the mouth and ears, chiseled with remarkable precision. The intricate detailing reflects traditional Sinhalese iconography, skillfully integrated into the design.

The knuckle guard, also cast in bronze, is richly chiseled and exhibits a high level of craftsmanship. At its terminal, it is adorned with a representation of the sérapéṅdiya, a mythical Sinhalese bird, echoing the motifs found on the crossbar and both quillons, which also bear this symbolic figure.

The entire hilt is cast in bronze and embellished with fine chiseled decoration. It has been further enhanced through fire-gilding, lending it a distinguished and luxurious finish which was likely meant as a status symbol, but equipped with a high-quality functional blade.

The blade:

Made in European manner, similar to the late 18th and early 19th century infantry saber blades. The blade is curved, single edged and has a very subtile fuller ending near the tip. The blades tang is skillfully placed in the bronze hilt and was riveted half way. The blade is in fine condition and lacks maker marks, a sign it could be locally made or imported from Europe, not commissioned to any military regiment or company. However, I consider this one of the finest ‘kasthane‘ I have encountered due to its precision, balance and original gilded finish.