VERY RARE MEDIEVAL INDIAN BROADSWORD KHANDA

15th century. Complex and intricate forged iron construction. The hilt with large built up flanged terminal, probably serving as a mace. Dimpled iron grip seated in V shaped guard which develops to two broad spiked edge ribs which sandwich the first, near half of the blade and serves as a grip for a blow from the pommel. The blade is thin and very flexible, as found on some patas. Thus, the base encasement serves to parry an attack while the balance of the blade remains supple to administer blows by a technique which, in our experience, is no longer clear. This is one of just five examples known to us. Two are in Museums (the British Museum and Bern Historical Museum) and two in private hands. This example is typically heavily rusted with some losses. Exceptionally early and rare.