While there has been little traction here on the arms of India in recent years, it is hard to forget the fascination and intrigue that were in discussion often as we looked into these forms.
In India, the local rulers of the princely states held the 'durbar' or royal court gatherings as they discussed matters of state or engaged in diplomatic meetings with other rulers and officials. In these events, much of the ceremonial element included the enterprise of various local vendors as well as in particular the innovation and skills of the armorers displaying impressive weapons. Often these, as seen, had unusual features, styling and character.
These durbars were brought into huge dimension during the British Raj, in which there were three huge affairs which most closely resembled a 'worlds fair', in the ceremonial implementation of British Royalty into power in India overall.
These kinds of weapons were likely the sort of wares which were produced for acquisition by those who were present in these huge affairs as well as times surrounding them. While technically of course 'souvenirs' and not actually battle intended weapons, they are still significant as artifacts of the time created by armorers to impress and awe visitors during these events.
As has been noted, there is no pragmatic purpose for the hidden blade in this interesting example, however it imitates many of the katar forms which had become well known during the 19th century.
The rudimentary character of this example simply reflects this possibly being among number(s) of these produced for sale during these often flamboyant events in the latter 19th century, and having its own intrinsic value. These events of course often brought people from not only Great Britain but other countries wishing to experience these interesting cultures.
Thank you VernBorg for sharing it here
