In excavated condition, with copper alloy hilt.

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.















Probably of Southern origin, with a straight blade and flaring tip.