Maratha (Indian) Firangi Sword, 17th/18th C

Description

The firangi is a distinctive Indian cut-and-thrust sword dating back to the 16th Century,
usually mounted with a European blade, and featuring a native hilt design. It was used by
cavalry, particularly the Marathas, Rajputs, and Mughals. Its name derives from the Persian
word farangi, meaning “foreigner”, referring to its imported European blade. They featured
a distinctive hilt with circular pommel and attached spike at the end. This spike could be
grasped for two-handed use, or used as an additional weapon in close quarters fighting.
This example features a straight, single-edged 40 3/8″ (102.5 cm) European blade with one
long and one short fuller, the shorter fuller with a series of stars and x’s and a European
style cross mark at the end of the shorter fuller; double-edged for the last 10 1/2″. Iron hilt
of traditional form, featuring figure-eight shaped hilt with double hashed border and
decorative chiseled edge projections, broad integral knuckle guard chiseled ensuite and
joining the cupped circular pommel, with slightly curved spike and integral waisted iron grip.
Very good original condition with scattered light pitting and even gunmetal gray patina, the
blade mostly smooth and retaining a sharp edge. Overall length 48 1/2″ (123.2 cm).
Provenance: The prestigious Russell Char Collection, Las Vegas.