Sinhalese Kasthane sword

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:
In classical Sinhalese form, depicting a large lion head forming the grip which is carved out of coral. The casted brass appliqués form details of the ferocious beast like its mouth and ears. The coral is carved with an incredible precision featuring traditional Sinhalese symbols. The knuckle guard is caused in bronze and chiseled with incredible detail with a silver inlayed cartouche. The end of the guard showing a ‘sérapéṅdiya’, a mythical Sinhalese bird. The crossbar and both quillons show a similar ‘sérapéṅdiya’. The grip shows a fine silver ferrule and the top and front of the hilt are decorated with a sheet of repousé silver.

The blade:
A brass covered forte with fine chiseled traditional motifs protecting the forte of the curved single edges blade. The blade is rather thick and, while most of these high quality examples were made for ceremonial use and indication of rank, seems to be actually functional.

This sword is above average quality and made with great attention to detail, yet the attribution to the royal Kandy workshops seems a little hopeful, but not excluded.