South Asia, India, ca. 19th century CE. A steel katar (also known as a "punch dagger") accompanied by its original iron sheath with silver inlays. This example features a broad, triangular blade with sharpened edges that taper to a point. Ingeniously engineered, the weapon incorporates an articulated mechanism activated by a hinged grip - when compressed, the outer "scissor-like" blades separate to reveal a concealed inner blade. The hilt, sheath, and the blade surfaces display intricate inlaid silver foliate and zoomorphic motifs of elephants and tigers. Size in sheath: 16.75" L x 3.75" W (42.5 cm x 9.5 cm); blade: 8.25" L x 2.5" W (21 cm x 6.4 cm); silver quality: 14% to 35%

Provenance: Private collection from The Estate of Francis and Marion Lederer, important Hollywood family

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Item # 199033

  • Condition: Mechanism to open blade functions smoothly. Patina and oxidation throughout, on blades, sheath, and handle. Some rubbing and fading to silver.

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by Artemis Fine Arts
June 25, 2026 9:00 AM MDT
686 S. Taylor Avenue
Suite 108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Artemis Fine Arts

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