Nobility Dha with Questions

Ian · 6th April 2017, 11:34 PM

Hi Jose.

A very nice Shan dha made in the Burmese style with an intricately carved ivory hilt.

The carved ivory hilt says Burmese. The v-ground blade (no deep fullers), the large lotus bud pommel, and the silver covered scabbard with flared, blunt toe all say Shan. The Shan made high quality blades with hardened edges, so that is consistent too.

This is a prestige piece made more for show than use, so it is surprising to find a hardened edge to the blade. Perhaps an important blade reworked with high quality fittings.

The carved figures on the hilt are most likely "nats"--various Burmese (Bama) spirits that can be helpful, mischievous, or downright nasty. These nats need to be appeased with offerings, etc. or they can do you all sorts of wrongs.

Would you mind showing more detailed pics of the blade, its edge and the tip?

Late 19th C sounds right for this one.

Congrats on finding a very nice dha.

Ian

6th April 2017, 11:34 PM	#4
Ian Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: The Aussie Bush Posts: 4,361	Hi Jose. A very nice Shan dha made in the Burmese style with an intricately carved ivory hilt. The carved ivory hilt says Burmese. The v-ground blade (no deep fullers), the large lotus bud pommel, and the silver covered scabbard with flared, blunt toe all say Shan. The Shan made high quality blades with hardened edges, so that is consistent too. This is a prestige piece made more for show than use, so it is surprising to find a hardened edge to the blade. Perhaps an important blade reworked with high quality fittings. The carved figures on the hilt are most likely "nats"--various Burmese (Bama) spirits that can be helpful, mischievous, or downright nasty. These nats need to be appeased with offerings, etc. or they can do you all sorts of wrongs. Would you mind showing more detailed pics of the blade, its edge and the tip? Late 19th C sounds right for this one. Congrats on finding a very nice dha. Ian Last edited by Ian; 7th April 2017 at 01:51 AM.