Dagger and sheath

Walrus ivory-from which the handle of this dagger is fashioned-was highly prized in South Asia. Like Chinese blue-and-white porcelain, such as the nearby dish, walrus ivory was thought by South Asians to possess powerful properties. It was said not only to reverse the effects of poison but also to stop the flow of blood and to heal wounds. For the latter two reasons especially, the so-called fish tooth was a popular material for dagger hilts during the Mughal dynasty (1526-1858). An old museum record suggests that this weapon once belonged to China's Kangxi emperor (reigned 1662-1722), to whom it may have been given as a diplomatic gift. That the dagger was made in India is indicated by the gold inlay design on its blade and sheath. An inscription on the blade names its maker, Rahim.