Handles of daggers from the Babur period, created in India in the 17th-18th centuries, are now kept in the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, and all of them are rare exhibits belonging to the WOSCU collection.
During the Mughal era, weaponry was not limited to military necessity, but became one of the important artistic fields representing the symbol of power, palace taste, and political position. Particular attention was paid to the handle of the dagger as the most prominent part of the weapon.
The first dagger handle at the center of the civilization was 16 centimeters long and made of ivory in the shape of an animal head. The elongated neck and stylized head are interpreted as symbols of power, vigilance, and control. And the fact that it was made with the preservation of natural color made it a work of art without unnecessary decorations, but rich in content.
The handle of the second dagger was 13 centimeters long and also made of ivory. In it, the image of the animal is expressed more clearly: the head is round, the lines of the eyes and beak are clearly carved. The expanded shape of the lower part ensures the firm fixation of the handle on the arm. Such handles were usually worn during palace ceremonies.
The third - a dagger handle in the shape of a lion - is considered one of the most elegant examples of artistic stone carving of the Babur period. Made of jade, this handle, approximately 11 centimeters long, has special significance not only aesthetically, but also symbolically.
It should be noted that in Mughal iconography, the lion was considered a symbol of power, courage, and supreme authority.