An extraordinary 17th-century Moghul Toradar Matchlock Rifle, entirely encased in beautiful mother-of-pearl, measuring an impressive 6 feet in length. This lavishly decorated firearm was likely crafted for aristocratic or royal clientele, reflecting the highest standards of Mughal craftsmanship.
Features:
Full-length mother-of-pearl casing – Exquisite craftsmanship across the entire 6 ft length
Curved stock design – For enhanced handling comfort
Typical Mughal detailing – Often included Damascus steel barrels, gold koftgari, and silver fittings
Cultural significance – Crafted for elite use, both in battle and ceremonial hunting
Comparable museum pieces – Similar examples housed in the Royal Collection Trust & Metropolitan Museum of Art
Historical reference – A toradar of this type was presented to King Edward VII during his 1875-76 India tour
Historical Context: Part of the Gunpowder Empires era, the Safavid, Mughal, and Ottoman empires (1500s–1700s) led the world in gunpowder warfare, using muskets and cannons both in combat and for aristocratic leisure.
Provenance: Acquired from a reputable U.S. arms and armor specialist.
Condition: Shows light to moderate wear, with minor imperfections consistent with age. A very fine, collector-grade example.
