Scabbard fitting (muhnal)

Mughal School This fitting, usually referred to as muhnal (literally "covering the mouth"), must have covered the top of a scabbard. In this example, the "mouth" is cut in a V-shape to accomodate the languette of the sword hilt. A gold inlaid band divides the surface into two horizontal sections, separating the "mouth" from the lower half. Two rings hang from opposing gold inlaid lugs that are placed on the narrow sides of the fitting. Centered around diamond-shaped motifs, the entire surface of the iron scabbard is inlaid and overlaid with intricate gold floral motifs, punctuated by a few small areas of openwork. Freer Gallery of Art Collection East of Eden: Gardens in Asian Art (February 24 to May 13, 2007) Gold: The Asian Touch (September 10, 2005 to February 20, 2006)