Ethnographic Arms & Armour - View Single Post

Jim McDougall · 17th December 2007, 04:05 AM

I have seen numerous discussions on the Nepalese kora, and in response to the suggestion that these were primarily ceremonial and sacrificial weapons, the answer was a resounding no, they were indeed used in battle. As I have noted, these heavy tulwar hilt examples from Bengal and Nepal border regions that were intended for sacrificial use typically had either the eye (of Kali) or sometimes a lotus, on the blade. This one has neither, but the interesting depiction of a royal figure, with what does look like a highly stylized kora. I think it might be presumed this was intended as a weapon, possibly for guards for a royal figure, this suggesting they would strike on behalf of that person if required. Naturally this is pure speculation but worth consideration.

17th December 2007, 04:05 AM	#9
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 9,745	I have seen numerous discussions on the Nepalese kora, and in response to the suggestion that these were primarily ceremonial and sacrificial weapons, the answer was a resounding no, they were indeed used in battle. As I have noted, these heavy tulwar hilt examples from Bengal and Nepal border regions that were intended for sacrificial use typically had either the eye (of Kali) or sometimes a lotus, on the blade. This one has neither, but the interesting depiction of a royal figure, with what does look like a highly stylized kora. I think it might be presumed this was intended as a weapon, possibly for guards for a royal figure, this suggesting they would strike on behalf of that person if required. Naturally this is pure speculation but worth consideration.