Hoping For Some Help Identifying the Origins of this SE Asian Highlands Weapon

[Ian]

Hi Charles:

This is an unusual item. It's more in the nature of a short pole arm/axe than a sword. Some of the materials look familiar. The short "hilt" is wrapped with cord in a manner that I have seen on old central and northern Thai swords, and more recently on swords from southern Yunnan, including those of the Lisu, as well as montagnard pieces. I have a very elegant early Rattanakosin daab with similar knotted cord work. The bands of white metal (silver?, copper alloy/brass?, tin?) along the shaft are non-specific and don't help me place this piece. The small disk guard is consistent with Thai, Lao, Cambodian, and Montagnard work, as well as southern Yunnan. The blade is clearly laminated, appears to be old, and again of a non-specific shape that is found widely in mainland SE Asia.

It is possible that this is a farm implement or tool converted to an ornate weapon. I am reminded of the Thai meed-prah, which is an everyday tool with a longish pole that is used mainly to clear vegetation and brush, but is also found "dressed up" as a weapon. There are several blade styles for meed-prah. PUFF made reference to these here.

I'm afraid I cannot be more specific. Hopefully, others will be able to recognize it.

Ian