New Delhi: Tipu Sultan's bedchamber sword has been sold for 14 million pounds ($17.4 million or Rs 143 crore) at Bonhams Islamic and Indian Art sale, an auction house in London.
This is a new auction world record for an Indian and Islamic object.
According to a press release by Bonhams, the sword was estimated at around 1,500,000-2,000,000 pounds. It further stated that the sword was arguably the finest and most important of the weapons with a proven personal association with the ruler.
"This spectacular sword is the greatest of all the weapons linked to Tipu Sultan still in private hands. Its close personal association with the Sultan, its impeccable provenance traceable to the very day it was captured, and the outstanding craftsmanship that went into its manufacture make it unique and highly desirable," said Oliver White, Bonhams Head of Islamic and Indian Art and auctioneer.
"The sword has an extraordinary history, an astonishing provenance and unrivalled craftsmanship. It was no surprise it was so hotly contested between two phone bidders and a bidder in the room. We are delighted with the result," said Nima Sagharchi, Group Head of Islamic and Indian Art.
The statement said, "As described by Francis Buchanan in his on-the-spot account describing Tipu's palace immediately after the siege, a sword lay within reach of the Sultan while he slept. (On constant alert against attack, Tipu slept in a hammock suspended from the ceiling of his locked and bolted bedchamber with a pair of pistols and a sword by his side). The weapon is of exceptional quality," the statement read.
The blade, which is inscribed 'The Sword of the Ruler' is particularly fine. It was manufactured by Mughal swordsmiths following the model of German blades introduced to India in the 16th century. The hilt is inlaid in exquisitely executed gold calligraphy with five of the qualities of God and two invocations calling on God by name," it said.