New Delhi: A Khanjar (dagger) belonging to Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan has been auctioned by London-based fine arts auctioneers Bonham's for £1.7 million (Rs 13.42 crore).
The artifact is considered one of Shah Jahan's most intricately inscribed possessions.
The 16-inch long gold encrusted curved dagger is part of Jacques Desenfan's collection.
Desenfan is a Belgian enthusiast interested in Indian and Himalayan art.
Bonhams also recently auctioned a marble bust of Maharaja Duleep Singh, for almost Rs 14 crore.
In 2004 Vijay Mallya had purchased the sword of Tipu Sultan in another London auction.
Another auction house Sotheby's had earlier cancelled the auction of a set of armour that some Sikhs believe belonged to Guru Gobind Singh.
"The dagger has all these inscriptions on it. It has the name of Shah Jahan and includes his honorific titles. It's dated 1629-30. It is the most complete inscription we've ever come across of any of his possessions or objects," an archeological expert says.
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