The KHUKURI is the traditional weapon of the Gurkha people from NEPAL. It is an every day tool used for hunting, agriculture, defense and fighting, and every man in Nepal is proud to carry one for use and as a symbol of status. It derives its shape from the “KOPIS” the ancient Greek sword. This specific example is mid 19th C. of top quality. It has a heavy down curving blade of 15.5 inches long, 3 inches wide at its widest point and almost 0.5 inch thick, marked on the spine. The blade is of the shape known as Budhume or literally: big belly. Very well forged with two narrow fullers near the spine. The grip is carved from dark wood and the bolster is gold. The scabbard is wood covered with black leather fitted with beautifully embossed gold fittings. A later chased silver plate was mounted under the locket rear side. Very good condition. This piece surely belonged to a high ranking person.