A Chinese shortsword made by a well-known Longquan maker.
86 cm
60 cm
Base 11 mm
Middle 5 mm
5 cm from tip 3 mm
Base 29 mm
Middle 25 mm
Widest at tip 27 mm
5 cm from tip 22 mm
717 grams
7 cm from hilt
Iron, steel, brass, bamboo, wood, rattan, leather
Northern Thailand
19th century
European antique market
Description
A charming and somewhat unusual example of a Thai dáap (ดาบ). It has a good sturdy blade with a gentle curve, narrower than that of the typical da of neighboring Burma.
The blade cross-section starts with a ridged spine, that gradually becomes round further up the blade. Blade surface is spotty from corrosion, and there is some edge damage. See photos.
Its hilt consists of a bamboo grip section with some remains of its original rattan braid wrap. Guard and pommel both sit on long ferrules that support the grip. The pommel is in the shape of a stylized lotus bud. The upper ferrule abruptly widens at the top to form a pleasantly shaped, sturdy guard.
Both pommel and guard are decorated with lines and dots. The work is simple, but at the same time quite elegant and fine.
The sword comes in a plain wooden scabbard with a perhaps later, braided leather strap.
A very rare ceremonial variety with copper scabbard inlaid with different alloys, and a brass blade.
Typical Chinese hook sword, with seldom-seen fine silver wire overlay.
The style typical of Kutch, the execution far above what is normally seen on work from that area.
An early fighting piece with strong reinforcing langet and broad, cobra shaped tip.
Of typical South Borneo workmanship, but formed like a mandau from Kutai.