India and Sri Lanka

India's rich diversity of history, peoples, cultures, languages, art, and religions has deeply influenced the significance, production, and decoration of ceremonial arms and armour. These objects vary widely, from indigenous creations like the iconic katar, a type of punch dagger, to those introduced through trade, travel, warfare, and invasion.


Hindu and Muslim kingdoms, particularly that of the Mughals (r. 1526–1858) used elaborately ornamented weapons and other martial objects to hold court—in weddings, parades, processions, formal receptions, and diplomatic affairs—and for social customs, like the royal hunt. The decoration of such objects also had notable significance, conveying ideals, such as strength and resilience, as well as shedding light onto trends in fashion and art. India's ethnic communities also used weapons to demonstrate power, authority, and heritage. The Kodavas, who reside in the modern-day state of Karnataka, continue to carry weapons to establish hierarchies within their society and symbolise ties to their warrior culture.


Beyond matters of the state, ceremonial weapons played a vital role in India's religious practices. The gods and goddesses of Hinduism, for instance, are depicted with multiple weapons that signify not only their slaying of powerful demons but also the victory of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and light over darkness. In the Indo-Islamic world, verbal and visual motifs associated with Allah (God) as well as the prophet Muhammad and his family were used on arms and armour to avert danger and bring blessings to the wielder.


Similarly, in Sri Lanka, ceremonial arms and armour carry a deep sense of reverence, embodying the island nation's proud martial heritage and serving as integral components of cultural and courtly rituals. Its indigenous sword, the kastane, and dagger or knife, the piha kaetta, transcended from their utilitarian purposes to meticulously decorated, ceremonial versions that were crafted by master artisans who belonged to one of the four royal guilds of the kingdom of Kandy (1469–1815). Reserved for the king and his courtiers, these weapons symbolised honour and distinction and were at times exchanged as diplomatic gifts.


The objects in this section offer a glimpse into the breadth and depth of the types and significance of ceremonial arms and armour in India and Sri Lanka. They are true testaments to the vibrancy and complexity of this region, reflecting historical, cultural, and religious dynamics spanning centuries.

 
Artboard 2.png
Artboard 3.png
Chob or soonta (ceremonial mace) in the form of an elephant
India; 19th century
Silver, gilt copper, precious stones
Mengdiexuan Collection