The sword of Tipu Sultan, the 18th-century Indian king, sold for $17.4 million at an auction held in London. CNN.
According to auction house Bonhams, the final price of the sword was seven times the estimated value.
“This sword has an unusual history, wonderful origins and unique craftsmanship. It’s no surprise that two phone bidders and one bidder are competing so fiercely for it. We are delighted with the result,” said Nima Sagarchi, president of Muslim and Indian art group Bonhams. said.
Tipu Sultan ruled the kingdom of Mysore in southern India from 1782 to 1799 and earned the nickname “The Tiger of Mysore” for the bravery he defended his kingdom. Tipu was killed by British troops on May 4, 1799 when they raided the capital of his kingdom, Seringapatama (now Srirangapattana).
After Tipu’s murder, his sword, which was found in the private chamber of his palace, was presented to British Major General David Baird in recognition of his bravery.
The hilt of the weapon is decorated with golden calligraphy, and the blade of the sword, made by Mughal masters on the model of German blades, reads “Sword of the Sovereign” in small Persian.
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