When the British finally defeated Tipu Sultan in 1799, they happily distributed the abundant jewelry and art of Srirangapatna among themselves. Most of Tipu's finely-crafted possessions, including dismantled parts of his throne, landed up in English parlours. Whenever these coveted articles from Tipu's world crop up at an auction every now and then, they fetch staggering prices. On Tuesday, auction house Bonhams sold 30 pieces of Tipu's arms and armour for £6 million (Rs 56.68 crore) The collection was part of Bonhams auction of Islamic and Indian art, which raised a total of £7.4 million (Rs 70.18 crore).
In an interview to Blouin Artinfo before the auction, Claire Penhallurick, head of the Indian and Islamic Department at Bonhams, said that there are very few Tipu artifacts in free circulation but a handful appear at auctions every year. According to Penhallurick the Tiger of Mysore generates interest not only in India and the United Kingdom and his belongings find buyers around the world.
The highest sale from Bonhams Tuesday auction was that of a gem-set sword with a tiger head pommel that was estimated to go for not more than £80,000 (Rs 75 lakh) but was sold for £2,154,500 (Rs 20.42 crore).
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In an interview to Blouin Artinfo before the auction, Claire Penhallurick, head of the Indian and Islamic Department at Bonhams, said that there are very few Tipu artifacts in free circulation but a handful appear at auctions every year. According to Penhallurick the Tiger of Mysore generates interest not only in India and the United Kingdom and his belongings find buyers around the world.
The highest sale from Bonhams Tuesday auction was that of a gem-set sword with a tiger head pommel that was estimated to go for not more than £80,000 (Rs 75 lakh) but was sold for £2,154,500 (Rs 20.42 crore).
An important rare gem-set Sword with tiger's head pommel from the royal regalia of Tipu Sultan, Seringapatam, (c. 1787-93).
A rare quilted Helmet with gold koftgari steel nasal bar, Mysore, late 18th century.
A 17-bore two shot superimposed-load silver-mounted flintlock Sporting Gun from the personal armoury of Tipu Sultan, made by Asad Khan-e Muhammad, Seringapatam, and dated 1222 (1793-94 AD).
A rare sword with bubri patterned watered blade from the palace armoury of Tipu Sultan, Seringapatam, (c. 1782-99).
A fine embroidered Quiver and Arm Guards, related Belt and seven decorated Arrows, Mysore, late 18th century.