Lucknow from the Gomti Lucknow from the Gomti (Image 2) (1826) by UnknownThe Wallace Collection
The North Indian city of Lucknow rose to prominence from the mid-18th century, becoming a crossroads for artists, craftsmen and wealthy patrons.
The swords made there were products of this creative flourishing.
Many are ornamented in dark blue and green enamelwork – a hallmark of the city’s decorative arts.
The designs on this sword are also characteristic of Lucknow, as fish became the foremost emblem of the court.
They adorned the city’s archways, were struck into coins, and even inspired the construction of fish-shaped boats.
Swords were also key to the expression of courtly hierarchies and political power.
This one was likely produced around the coronation of the seventh Nawab of Awadh, Ghazi al-Din Haidar (r.1814-27), who crowned himself king in 1819, ending his family’s nominal allegiance to the Mughal Empire.
The hilt’s design – with the two fish, dagger (katar) and tigers – parallels a sketch for a proposed new coat of arms, drafted for the coronation ceremony that took place in Lucknow.
The dazzling gold colour and fearsome tigers make commanding symbols of wealth and strength.
This sword belonged to an earlier ruler of the region. The name of the third Nawab of Awadh, Shujaʿ al-Dawla (r. 1754–75), is inscribed on the blade.
One of the most formidable personalities of his time, he consolidated Awadh’s influence and military might during the first half of his rule.
The sword was either his personal weapon or gifted from his waist to a subordinate.
Sword with scabbard Sword with scabbard (1670/1700) by UnknownThe Wallace Collection
Swords often featured in khilʿat or ‘robes of honour’ ceremonies in which luxurious garments, first worn by the ruler, were then presented to a courtier or distinguished guest – thereby incorporating a subject within the ruler’s physical realm.
Swords were also a key component of courtly dress and helped shape masculine identities.
What looks like a tongue sticking out of the camel’s mouth here is actually a dulla – an internal organ that male camels expose to show dominance or attract a mate.
The hilt’s design therefore proclaims the bravery and virility of its former owner.
From the third quarter of the 18th century, the British East India Company reinforced their political grip over Lucknow’s court.
This sword was likely intended for a Company representative, as a design on the hilt mirrors an element of the Company’s crest: a lion holding a crown, standing above a shield.
Lucknow from the Gomti Lucknow from the Gomti (1826) by UnknownThe Wallace Collection
In 1856, the British East India Company annexed the region of Awadh. Its last king was exiled from Lucknow and many craftsmen followed him to Kolkata.
Lucknow from the Gomti Lucknow from the Gomti (1826) by UnknownThe Wallace Collection
A year later, Lucknow was a major site of resistance against Company rule during the 1857 Uprising.
The swords from Lucknow in the Wallace Collection were acquired at auction and from private dealers in London and Paris during the latter half of the 19th century by Sir Richard Wallace and the 4th Marquess of Hertford.
The European market for South Asian weapons was sourced largely by returning military officers, who had amassed their collections through purchases, gifts and spoils of war.
Sabre with scabbard Sabre with scabbard (1770/1800) by UnknownThe Wallace Collection
Learn more about out Swords of Lucknow display at the Wallace Collection.
