Talwar; blued steel hilt with scrolling knucklebow, flat disc pommel with swivel, short crossguard above tiger head langet with blade in its mouth; gilt inscriptions; back-edged curved steel blade with gilt inscription; green velvet covered scabbard. The sword belonged to Tipu Sultan (1750-99), the so-called Tiger of Mysore. Tipu Sultan succeeded as ruler of the South Indian state of Mysore in 1782, where he built a sophisticated and modern court around his palace at Seringapatam. He spent much of his reign engaged in hostilities against the British. In 1792 a peace treaty was signed with Tipu, but the discovery of secret communications with Napoleon brought about a renewed British campaign against him, culminating in the sack of Seringapatam on 4 May 1799. A number of spoils of war, including this sword were removed as trophies. It was presented to George III by General Lord Adam Gordon