Dha from Bassein

Ian · 14th August 2021, 12:23 AM

Hi Wayne,

Well said. The suspension system is intended for hanging on a wall as you noted, despite some older, high quality examples showing a similar suspension system. Those older dha were probably presentation/ceremonial items also, not designed for wearing but for show. The so-called "temple dha" of the 20th C likely served much the same function (at lower cost). Both your example and Kubur's are at the higher end of swords made in the last 50-60 years for these purposes.

The replacement of the traditional baldric with one or two metal rings is a strong clue to their decorative purposes.

14th August 2021, 12:23 AM	#15
Ian Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: The Aussie Bush Posts: 4,200	Hi Wayne, Well said. The suspension system is intended for hanging on a wall as you noted, despite some older, high quality examples showing a similar suspension system. Those older dha were probably presentation/ceremonial items also, not designed for wearing but for show. The so-called "temple dha" of the 20th C likely served much the same function (at lower cost). Both your example and Kubur's are at the higher end of swords made in the last 50-60 years for these purposes. The replacement of the traditional baldric with one or two metal rings is a strong clue to their decorative purposes.