Code: CA12
This is a Kukri from Nepal. The kukri ( “Khukuri” in strict translation of the Nepali word) is the renowned national weapon of Nepal and the Gurkhas.
This kukri has a total length of 14 ¼ inch. The blade measures 9 ¼ inches and the hilt 5 inches. The blade is well forged with the steel merging into the bolster itself. The blade is ¼ inch thick at the base, tapering distally to 1/16 inch thick near the tip.
This kukri features a hand-forged blade with carved designs in traditional motifs. On both side of the blade the design features a single dragon (garoud). No fuller is found A notch near hilt is found, called a "kauri" or more commonly, "cho". Nepalese kukris after 1800 will always feature a kauri. The purpose of the kauri is a matter of dispute. On the practical side, it may be useful for catching and neutralizing an enemy's blade. Another theory is that the kauri is a religious symbol representing the male and female organs.
The hilt is horn with a large carved brass inlay, and brass "sun pattern" coins alternating with inlaid cirles of bone with colored enamel. A bone handle ring with geometric design is found, typical of traditionally made kukris. The pommel/buttcap are missing. The square patch missing bone on the front of the hilt near the butt was probably covered in brass with a design similar to the that at the base.
This complete example also features two small knives that are typically carried along with a blade. The hilts of these knives is also bone, but undecorated. The bone appears identical in appearance and age with the hilt. One blade is sharp, the "karda", and serves as a general utility knife. The other knife, a chakmak, is unsharpened. It is used as a sharpening steel for the kuri or for striking sparks for a fire. The two knives fit into small sleeves on the inner backside of the scabbard (dap).
The scabbard is made of sewn leather wrapped around two pieces of hardwood and the two small sleeves. The leather shows considerable aged. The front of the scabbard is covered in a thin layer of brass which affixed by a middle brass band, a brass throat and a brass chape. The embossed scabbard design depicts a traditional sun motif as well as echoing the garoud dragon found on the blade.
The item appears to have been thoroughly cleaned although small portions remain on the blade showing considerable patina and grime elsewhere.
Alternate names: khookree, kookerie, khukri, kukery, cookerie
