REGISTERED ANTIQUITY – NON-EXPORTABLE ITEM.

Object Detail

This Pata, popularly known as Dandpatta in Marathi, is among the most remarkable and unique weapons in Indian arms and armour. Closely associated with Maratha warriors of the 17th and 18th centuries, it symbolizes the martial spirit and regional identity of the Marathas during their struggle for independence. Unlike ordinary swords, this Pata features a unique gauntlet-style hilt that fully encloses the forearm. The warrior inserts their arm into the metal guard and grips a crossbar inside, making the long straight blade a direct extension of the arm. This unique design serves as both an offensive weapon and a protective shield, allowing powerful strikes while safeguarding the arm.

This Pata hilt stands out for its artistic quality and rich ornamentation. It consists of three main parts: the cylindrical forearm guard, a transitional collar, and the sculptural tiger-head terminal. The cylindrical guard is slightly tapered for a secure fit and is decorated with engraved figures of lions and fish, framed by delicate floral borders. The most striking feature is the bold tiger-head terminal at the top, crafted in high relief using the repousse technique and refined through chasing. Made of bronze, this Pata hilt beautifully merges the warrior’s strength with the tiger’s ferocity. The tiger symbolizes shakti (power), virata (bravery), and royal authority, holding special significance for the Marathas as an emblem of resistance and self-rule during Shivaji Maharaj’s era. The engraved lion figures on the cylindrical guard further emphasize power and vigilance, with their raised legs suggesting constant alertness against enemies.

The floral motifs, resembling stylized lotus forms, add balance, rhythm, and a sense of purity to the composition. They also create a harmonious blend of the bold Deccani animal style and Mughal floral influences. This reflects the artistic creativity and cultural exchange typical of the Deccan region. Though designed as a formidable combat weapon that required great skill and training to master, this richly decorated dandpatta hilt was likely also intended for ceremonial purposes, court display, or as a symbol of high rank and authority. This Pata beautifully demonstrates how art and warfare were deeply interconnected in early modern India. It transforms a simple functional weapon into a powerful artistic statement of strength, bravery, and cultural identity.

Provenance

From a Private Collection in Mumbai, India.

Condition

Good condition with minor wear.

Dimension

Length – 36 cm

Literature Comparison

1. Jaiwant Paul, Arms and Armour: Traditional Weapons of India(New Delhi: Roli Books, 2005), pg no.- 88-89

2. “Traditional Maratha Weapons.” Godaji Jagtap Museum. Accessed April 27, 2026. https://godajijagtapmusem.com/history.html

3.The Metropolitan Museum of Art, “Hilt of a Gauntlet Sword (Pata),” 17th–18th century, https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/827648

4. Azumi Shoto, “Pata Sword: Unveiling the History and Significance of India’s Unique Gauntlet Sword,” Mini Katana, January 29, 2024, https://minikatana.com/en-de/blogs/main/pata-sword-unveiling-the-history-and-significance-of-indias-unique-gauntlet-sword

5. Pata Gauntlet Sword – Ethnographic Arms & Armour,” Ethnographic Arms & Armour, accessed April 27, 2026, https://share.google/mglHM3Eof5v7hvcrJ