Weapons and AmmunitionIndian17th-18th century

Mace with Spherical Head

17th-18th century

Description

The mace consists of a large, spherical, steel head that features a thick, embossed, decorative band with scalloped edges running around the middle. The head is also divided into six segments by riveted and embossed vertical bands. At the top of the mace head is a band with a scalloped edge. The finial is molded into an abstract lotus shape. The head is hollow and has small beads within that create a rattling sound. It is welded to the haft, which is made of a single piece of solid steel. It thickens at the grip which is separated from the rest of the haft by three embossed, thick bands. The haft terminates into a small, roughly-chiseled knob.

Classification

Weapons and Ammunition

Medium

Steel

Culture

Indian

Century

17th-18th century

Division

Asian and Mediterranean Art

Department

Department of Islamic & Later Indian Art

Dimensions

77 cm (30 5/16 in.)

Provenance

Stuart Cary Welch (by 1999 - 2008,) by descent; to his estate (2008-2009,) gift; to Harvard Art Museum. Notes: Object was part of long-term loan to Museum in 1999.