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UK Implements Export Bar on Tipu Sultan’s £2 Million Flintlock Gun
This 14-bore gun, designed for shooting games, was crafted in India by Asad Khan Muhammed between 1793 and 1794.
The firearm is an important artifact showcasing the interconnected history between Britain and India with its elaborate silver mounts, gold and silver inlays, and chiseled steel barrel.
This article explores the decision to impose an export bar, highlighting the significance of the gun and its historical context.
Preserving British-Indian Heritage
Arts and Heritage Minister Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay placed an export bar on Tipu Sultan’s Flintlock sporting gun to secure its public display within the UK.
The minister’s decision was guided by the recommendations of the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest.
Recognized as a visually striking and historically significant artifact, the gun symbolizes the complex relationship between Britain and India during a tumultuous era.
By preserving and sharing this piece with the public, a deeper understanding of the intertwined history of both nations can be fostered.
Tipu Sultan and his Legacy
Tipu Sultan, known as the Tiger of Mysore, fiercely opposed the British East India Company and its allies during the Anglo-Mysore wars. He met his demise on May 4, 1799, while defending Seringapatam (Srirangapatna), his fortified stronghold.
His distinctive personal weapons were distributed among prominent military figures after his death. The gun was presented to General Earl Cornwallis, who had previously clashed with Tipu Sultan between 1790 and 1792.
Aesthetic Significance and Historical Relevance
The expert committee reviewing the gun deemed it aesthetically significant and invaluable for studying Tipu Sultan, his court, Lord Cornwallis, British history, and the conclusion of the third Anglo-Mysorean war.
Evaluated against the ‘Waverley Criteria,’ established in 1952 to determine the importance of cultural objects, the gun’s exquisite craftsmanship and technically advanced mechanism, allowing two shots without reloading, add to its allure.
Committee member Christopher Rowell describes it as “extremely beautiful” and believes it warrants acquisition by a British institution where all can appreciate it.
Preservation Efforts and Next Steps
The gun’s export license application decision will be deferred until September 25, 2023. During this period, potential buyers can consider purchasing the gun at the recommended price of two million pounds.
If the gun remains unsold by the end of the deferral period, an additional four-month deferral will commence. These preservation efforts reflect the commitment to safeguarding historical artifacts and ensuring their accessibility for future generations.
conclusion
In conclusion, imposing an export bar on Tipu Sultan’s gun underscores the importance of preserving British-Indian heritage and fostering a deeper understanding of historical connections.
With its intricate craftsmanship and significant historical context, this exquisite firearm provides valuable insights into a pivotal era in British and Indian history. By allowing for potential buyers to come forward and ensure its public display in the UK, efforts are being made to enrich our collective knowledge and appreciation of the past.