The rare ceremonial palace daggers of the Baburid dynasty are being presented to the general public for the first time

During the Baburid period, weapon making was not limited solely to military needs; it evolved into one of the important artistic fields expressing royal symbolism, courtly taste, and political status. In particular, dagger hilts as the most visually prominent part of a weapon were crafted with special care.

Jade, ivory, precious stones, and animal forms reflected the aesthetic sensibilities characteristic of Baburid court culture. For this reason, such hilts often served as ceremonial weapons, gifts, or symbols of rank.

Today, the dagger hilts from the Baburid period preserved at the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan vividly demonstrate various artistic interpretations of this tradition. All of them were produced in India in the 17th–18th centuries and are considered rare exhibits belonging to the WOSCU collection.

Dagger hilt. India, Baburid period, 17^th-18^th century. Replica, 16 cm

The first dagger hilt is 16 centimeters high and carved in the form of an animal head. Made of ivory, this object emphasizes simplicity of form and an overall silhouette. The elongated neck and stylized head are interpreted as symbols of power, vigilance, and control. The preservation of the natural color transforms the hilt into a work of art that is restrained in ornamentation yet rich in meaning.

Dagger hilt. India, Baburid period, 17^th-18^th century. Replica, 13 cm

The second dagger hilt measures 13 centimeters and is also carved from ivory. Here, the animal image is rendered more distinctly: the head is rounded, with clearly carved eyes and muzzle lines. The widened lower section ensures a firm grip in the hand. This demonstrates that Baburid craftsmen carefully considered practical aspects alongside aesthetics. Such hilts were usually worn during court ceremonies.

Dagger hilt. India, Baburid period, 17^th-18^th century. 

The third dagger hilt shaped as a lion is regarded as one of the most refined examples of Baburid stone carving. Made of jade and approximately 11 centimeters high, this hilt is significant not only aesthetically but also symbolically.

Rustam Jabborov, Scientific Secretary of the Center:

“The image of the lion was not chosen by chance. In Baburid iconography, the lion symbolized sovereignty, courage, and supreme authority. The upper part of the hilt is carved in the form of a lion’s head, with an open mouth and a forward-looking gaze. The colored stones set into the eyes bring the piece to life and enhance the splendor typical of court art.

 

From a technical perspective, the hilt is also very complex in its execution. Such objects were not intended for everyday use, but rather for the court circle or high-ranking individuals.”

What unites these three exhibits is the clear reflection of the Baburid attitude toward weaponry. In this period, the dagger was perceived not only as a means of defense, but also as a visible symbol of power, aesthetic taste, and political status.

Today, the preservation of these dagger hilts at the Islamic Civilization Center is of particular significance. They make it possible to study the court art, weapon-making culture, and level of artistic thought in Baburid India through authentic objects. In this respect, these exhibits represent a unique material and visual expression not only of the history of weapons, but also of the culture of rulership in the 17^th-18^th centuries.

Laylo Abdukakhkharova

P.S. The article may be republished with a link to the Center’s official website.