Unusual Shan Burmese Silver-Gilt Knife

This unusual dagger or knife is from the Shan people of eastern Burma or a related group. The handle and scabbard are encased in high-grade silver that has been decorated with applied silver wire work with bows and floral motifs, and silver granulation work. The silver has been gilded (gold plated) although much of this has worn.

The blade is a steel, single-edged blade which ends in a point.

The knife is unusual for its lozenge shape. The handle or hilt has a flattened top which is decorated with further applied silver wire work. The scabbard terminates in a rounded end.

The knife is in fine condition. There are no losses to the silver decoration work.