An Exceptional Mughul Indian Khanjar With Carved Pale Grey-Green Jade Hilt Inlaid With Gems In Gold Kundan Settings. 18th century

With finely watered blade tapering sharply to a curved narrow point, cut with a narrow central rib, both sides decorated with a basal panel of gold koftgari scrollwork inhabited by pairs of exotic birds, hilt of 'mutton fat' jade finely carved in low relief, inlaid with an alternating pattern of small gem-set gold leaves, inlaid with elaborate designs of flowering sprays involving unusually complex expanded heads at the base and pommel, a further gem-set flourish over the top of the pommel, and in later velvet-covered scabbard with pierced engraved silver mounts. 14in (35.5cm).  Estimate £18,000 - £22,000 ($27,486- $33,594) - Price Realized £22,500 ($35,032)

Christie's. Antique Arms & Armour. 17 December 2008. London, South Kensington. Image 2008 Christie's Ltd. www.christies.com