UK seeks buyer for Mughal dagger

UK MINISTERS are hoping to find a domestic buyer for a Mughal dagger and scabbard (right) owned by Robert Clive.

Valued at £1,120,000, the dagger is likely to have been acquired by Clive in 1757 following his victory at the Battle of Plassey.

Culture minister Caroline Dinenage said, “This beautiful example of a Mughal dagger and scabbard has a lot to teach us about both the British in India and the nature of diplomatic gifts at the time. “I hope a UK-based buyer is found so this magnificent item can be studied and enjoyed for years to come.”

The dagger has an unusually formed jade hilt and is embellished with precious stones; its blade is made of Indian watered steel.

Dating to 1650, the silk brocade cover on the wooden scabbard is Iranian, reflecting that country’s influence on India.

The reviewing committee on the export of works of art and objects of cultural interest said it was “a fascinating object and illustrative of the culture of court etiquette and diplomatic gift-giving observed at the imperial and regional courts in 18th century India”.

Committee member Peter Barber said, “I hope they can be retained in this country so that they can be researched, and can, when displayed, illustrate an important chapter in the story of the UK’s involvement with the Indian subcontinent.”

A decision on the export licence for the dagger will be deferred until October 8 and could be extended till February 8, 2022, if a serious intention to raise funds to buy it at the price of £1,120,000 is made.