Ceremonial Dagger with Tiger-Head Hilt in Koftgiri by Shyamlata Gahlot

This Koftgiri work by Shyamalata Gehlot presents a ceremonial curved dagger whose dark metal surface is intricately overlaid with shimmering silver inlay, culminating in a sculpted tiger-head hilt that transforms the weapon into a symbol of power and prestige.

Koftgiri is a traditional metal-inlay technique of Rajasthan in which fine gold or silver wire is hammered into engraved steel surfaces, historically used to embellish arms, armour, and royal objects.

The blade’s elegant arc rises vertically against a deep red background, tapering to a fine point that emphasises both lethality and grace. Delicate vegetal arabesques unfold across the patinated steel, their pale inlay catching light in rhythmic continuity that unites blade and hilt into a single ornamental field.

At the base, the hilt terminates in a stylised tiger head, its snout and features subtly modelled yet fully integrated into the inlaid patterning. In Rajput martial symbolism, the tiger signifies courage, sovereignty, and royal authority; its presence here elevates the dagger from weapon to emblem of rulership. The slightly flared pommel and grip retain fine inlaid tracery, suggesting meticulous engraving followed by the careful hammering of silver wire into the surface.

Encased within a black shadow-box frame lined in crimson, the dagger is presented as a prized artefact rather than a utilitarian object. The saturated red backdrop intensifies the contrast of silver on steel while reinforcing associations with courtly display and armoury traditions.

Through its sinuous curvature, continuous inlay, and leonine hilt, the dagger embodies the essence of Koftgiri: the transformation of martial steel into an object of regal ornament, symbolic authority, and enduring craftsmanship.

6-inch dagger.

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