EL6995 - An 18th or early-19th century Indian shamshir from the Kutch region, featuring a gilt hilt, in need of extensive restoration. This was a very high status sword in its time, but sadly time has not been kind to it! The hilt is copper alloy, engraved with floral motifs overall, and then gilded. The hilt is in very good condition, except sadly for one broken quillon - this could be replicated and replaced based on the other quillon. The hilt is firmly attached to the tang, with no movement. The shamshir blade, of 29 inches long, is probably wootz, but has extensive rust damage and some areas of bad pitting. The base of the blade was decorated with silver and gold floral koftgari, some of which remains. The blade could be considerably improved by a competent restorer. This has the potential to be a very good sword, and is a very interesting and sought-after type, but really needs a good experienced restorer to take it on. With such work, its value could be tripled or more.
