Indian Bichuwa Dagger

Price: $1,800.00 · Region: India · Type: Daggers

At a glance. India, 17th century. Iron. Overall length 15". Bichuwa (bichwa) dagger — “scorpion” form — in Bikaner-armory style iron hilt; formerly Roy Elvis collection.

This sculptural example is entirely in iron. The handle is crisply formed in classic Bikaner armory style (no Bikaner markings retained) with a pommel knob reminiscent of larger Bikaner swords. The blade is multi-fullered, with age and wear appropriate to the type. The name bichuwa / bichwa comes from the Hindi for scorpion (बिछुआ), referring to the curved, sting-like blade.

Compact curved bichuwas were used as close-combat and concealed sidearms in medieval and early-modern Indian courts; this piece’s iron Bikaner-style hilt places it in that North Indian armory tradition.

Provenance. Roy Elvis collection.

References.

• Object measurements and culture/period fields as recorded in the Arms & Antiques catalogue entry (Period: 17th century; Culture: India; Materials: iron; overall length 15 in.).
• Catalogue comparable to be added when a public museum or sale example with verified inventory/lot number is confirmed — do not invent citations.