Pata swordsmen of the 17th century through to the Victorian era were specially trained in the use of this weapon, and could be extremely accurate with this somewhat unusual sword form. Peculiar to the Indian subcontinent, these broadswords had a protective gauntlet or armguard of steel, the grip being set at right angles to the blade (see page 485 item 6 of Stone’s A Glossary Of Arms & Armor where a Pata with similar gauntlet form as ours is illustrated). The steel gauntlet on this example has age and use related wear and one small hole possibly old battle damage. The sword has a 37” flat steel double edged blade and measures 49 ¾” overall. The blade is riveted to the ornate extended tang of the Gauntlet. The blade with coarsely formed fuller / blood groove is sharp and has a few nicks consistent with age. The inside of the gauntlet has a steel bar grip set across the inside of the fist part of the gauntlet. The 'cuff' of the gauntlet has a curved fore arm bar/ bracelet which hooks into 2 holes, one either side of the gauntlet. The price includes UK delivery. Sn 22752 (armoury next to bucket)
£895.00