*Nepalese Traditional Kukri Bhojpure with old scabbard with additional Khalti pouch, 3 kardas, chamak, 2 further tools and 1940s British Army Issue Frog*
This is a large Bhojpur Kukri, Nepal’s national knife, known for its 36cm curved, thick blade, measuring 46.2cm in total length, with a 6cm width and 8mm spine. It has a distinctive Cho (notch), a brass guard, an engraved wooden grip without visible tang or rivets, and a flared pommel.
The accompanying scabbard (dap), an older version, is made of leather over Woodwith decorative elements. It includes a blunt steel tool called a “Chakmak” for sharpening the blade and striking sparks from flint. There are also three small utility knives called “Karda.” Some of the older scabbards like this feature an extra leather pouch called “Khalti,” used for carrying small survival kits or flint to create sparks with the Chakmak.
The frog, likely from the 1940s, is a British Gurkha Army Issue, made of sturdy black leather with a front lace-up closure. On the inside it bears the stamp “Trademark” and a stylized image of a water buffalo, a possible reference to the kukri’s legendary power to decapitate a water buffalo.
*Background*
The Kukri really came to note outside Nepal with the Nepal War in 1814-15 after the formation of British Gurkha Army. The vast majority of kukris, especially those carried by troops in Burma during World War, were anonymous, commercially produced weapons.
The Bhojpur Kukri, from the eastern village of Bhojpur, Nepal, is known for its thick and heavy design, ideal for cutting. It features a notch or Cho, serving practical and religious purposes. the notch works as a blood stop to prevent blood or fluid from going towards the handle so that a good grip can be maintained. Additionally it was to stop the sharpener when in use from reaching the handle. It also has religious significance representing the Hindu fertility symbol (OM) and mirrors the sacred cows hoof. The kukri symbolizes Hindu deities, has spiritual significance, and is believed to protect against evil and bring fortune. It signifies honor, courage, and loyalty and is traditionally carried while awake and placed under the pillow upon retirement.
*Condition*
The blade is in excellent condition with age related wear and tear and minor scratching, as is the handle with the exception of a small chip to the pommel. The Leather scabbard is in good condition with a tear to the throat on one side. The Frog condition is excellent with normal signs of age and the stitching has come loose on either side. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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