Shan Burmese Dha Sword

Short Sword (Dha) with Ivory Hilt & Silver Mounts

This Shan short sword is particularly notable for its fine condition and its superb patina. The scabbard is of wood encased in near-pure hammered sheet silver decorated with bands of applied silver filigree and granule work. The chape is unadorned and flares. The single-edged steel blade fits snugly into the scabbard.

The handle comprises silver encasing decorated with further silver bands and a long, pointed piece of ivory that ends with a point and has faceted sides allowing a superior grip. The ivory, like the silver, has a wonderful patina suggesting significant age and use.

Lewis, P. & E.,

Peoples of the Golden Triangle: Six Tribes in Thailand, Thames & Hudson, 1984.

UK art market