At its Antique Arms & Armor sale on June 20, 2011 in San Francisco, Bonhams & Butterfields is excited to present a historic gem-set saber, likely 17th century Turkish and originating from Mysore, India during the period of the Tipu Sultan's ruling (est. $15,000-25,000). 

The gilt silver-mounted sword boasts an impressive, curved 32½-inch long blade and is adorned with a crossguard chased in floral engravings. As well, the grip on the wide saber is covered with engraved, gilt-silver plates. 

The historic saber is accompanied by a gilt-silver plate covered scabbard, which boasts elaborate scrollwork and borders. The front is set with thirteen precious and semi-precious stones and the reverse is covered in dark shagreen and inscribed with the words: "Taken from/Tippoo Saib (sic)/Seringapatam/1799." 

The sword's origin points to a robust period in India's history – the 1780's - during which the Tipu Sultan ruled India's strongest, most prosperous state. Tipu was a relentless warrior who inflicted defeats on the British and used Western weaponry against their inventors. He was killed at the siege of Seringapatam in 1799.