North Indian Sosun Pattah

The Sosun Pattah, a type only found in India is also known a ‘Lilly Leaf’ sword due to the elegant shape of the blade. This example is from Islamic origin, Lahore and features the Indo-Islamic hilt. The construction, weight and shape of the blade makes it perfectly suitable for slashing and chopping. A type which was well praised among the Jaipur court and considered of significant importance.

The ‘Sosun Pattah’ blade form is believed to be influenced by the ancient ‘Kopis’ blades from Egypt and the Turkish ‘Yataghan’ and was most popular among the Jaipur and Rajput. This example is in Islamic style, slender formed and rather thin blade with a typical curve. Due to its decoration it is most likely from the Lahore region, Northern India.

Three Indian man of which the one on the left holds a ‘Sosun Pattah’ with shiny finished blade. Unknown postcard – 19th century

The hilt:
Made of iron, in Muslim style. A characteristic ‘talwar’ hilt type with knuckle guard and two flaring quillons. The ‘Hakim khahi‘ hilt is often seen on this kind of sword. The pommel is straight, which accommodates a firm grip. The disc shaped pommel has a small dome with fine geometrical decoration of gold floral patterns.
The curved knucklebow depicts a ‘Makara’ head running out to the end. The blackened hilt with koftgari pattern is of an interesting floral design covering the entire hilt.

The blade:
A fine curved blade with a cartouche filled with chiseled floral motif on the forte. The flat T-shaped spine runs down to the tip section and is engraved with a foliage pattern.
The blade consists of fine grained and consistent wootz pattern. The sharpened cutting edge begins near the forte.