A Rare South Indian Pattisa Sword with Engraved Steel Hilt, 17th - 18th Century.

A Rare South Indian Pattisa Sword with Engraved Steel Hilt, 17th - 18th Century. This rare and formidable South Indian Pattisa, dating from the 17th to early 18th century, features a broad, heavy steel blade characteristic of the martial traditions of the Deccan and Southern regions. The double-edged blade is expertly forged, gradually flaring toward the terminal to form a distinctive rounded "cobra’s head" tip designed for devastating cutting power. The sword is mounted with a traditional South Indian steel hilt, featuring elongated, pointed langets that are intricately chased with foliate and geometric motifs and secured to the blade with decorative rivets. The guard is composed of elegant, recurved cusps that transition into a waisted grip and terminate in a large, shallow cup-shaped pommel typical of the period. Measuring approximately 96 centimeters in total length, this scarce ethnographic weapon represents a significant example of early modern Indian arms, highly sought after for its unique geometry and historical provenance. The item is in good condition.