Choora
Category
Arms and armour
Date
1800 - 1900
Materials
wootz steel & bone
Measurements
560 mm (H); 50 mm (W); 30 mm (D)
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Kedleston Hall, Derbyshire
NT 107222
Summary
A dagger (Choora) that originates from the Kurram Valley on the Afghanistan/Pakistan border and was used by the Mahsud tribe. It has the typically pronounced 'T' shaped spine and is related to the Peshkabz. The only feature that distinguishes it from the Peshkabz is the shape of the grip, which has a more pronounced and downward-shaped pommel. This particular hilt is made from bone and has been carved to show several grooves. 'A sword (Tulwar, Yataghan or Khyber Knife with bone and brass handle - Indian (Kurram Valley). Its sheath is No. 29 in this case' (Christies entry)
Provenance
Purchased in 1986 by the National Heritage Memorial Fund from Francis Curzon, 3rd Viscount Scarsdale (1924-2000). Gifted to the National Trust in 1987 by the National Heritage Memorial Fund.