Thai daab/katana fusion

[Nathaniel]

Also some further reference pieces:

[kahnjar1]

I have had this piece for a while now,and it came to me as being of Khmer or Cochin origin. Having seen the pics posted here, it at least looks as if the shape could be influenced by Japanese swords/blades. Condition is not wonderful but is certainly original.
The bamboo piece on the scabbard was there when I originally got this sword and I would be interested to know if anyone can shed any light on its meaning.
Regards Stuart

[Nathaniel]

Interesting piece Stu....I've seen more Lao, Cambodian and Vietnamese pieces with guards in kind of a Japanese/ European influence.

Here are some pictures of a sword on the wall at the Royal Barge Museum..it also has a guard:

[DhaDha]

For further referance. Here is some detail from a Daab in the style of top pic from the National Museum. Very similar wrap design to Mark's. Same oval cross-section as well. This one however, has a blade with a similar profile to that of the rattan-handled Daab in the same pic.

[Nathaniel]

DhaDha, That is a fantastic looking handle...I really have to see the National Museum...somehow I've never made it there yet.

It reminded me of a beautiful metro shan pieces listed on Mark's Dha Research Index...C0046







Japanese influence can be seen obviously with the habaki.

[sirupate]

Also the fuller looks very similar to the bo hi on Japanese swords

[Nathaniel]

I was waiting to see if anyone mentioned it...or the new owner to post....but I think I will just go ahead and reference ...funny how Mark shows us his piece and another shows up shortly after...











http://www.oriental-arms.com/item.php?id=3743

[Mark]

Originally Posted by kahnjar1

I have had this piece for a while now,and it came to me as being of Khmer or Cochin origin. Having seen the pics posted here, it at least looks as if the shape could be influenced by Japanese swords/blades. Condition is not wonderful but is certainly original.
The bamboo piece on the scabbard was there when I originally got this sword and I would be interested to know if anyone can shed any light on its meaning.
Regards Stuart

This one has me a bit stumped. Cambodian or Cochin seems reasonable, but thinking now about the fusions, including the one Nathaniel posted from the Royal Barge Museum, it could well be Thai. I think I have been biased by seeing photos of the nicer pieces (from "Silverware in Thailand," for example) into thinking it is essentially a fancy style for the rich and noble. Still no idea what the folded leaf is for. Is there any evidence of writing on it? It occurred to me that it might be a prayer.