Kora Sword

Here is a pretty Nepalese Kora sword. The slender variant of this sword is designed for combat while the wide-bladed examples are intended for sacrificial ceremonies. The blade is heavy and the curved side is still sharp. Talismanic decorations, applied using various techniques, make this example stand out from the average kora. The back and sides feature engravings filled with red dye as well as inlaid gold scrollwork. The cylindrical hilt is of typical construction with two thick discs acting as a cross guard and pommel. Two rivets on the handle. Traces of early red dye plating which has largely come off. Very good item and in good condition. To be dated late 18th to early 19th century.