Bidspirit auction | A SOUTHEAST ASIAN SILVER-MOUNTED DHA

A SOUTHEAST ASIAN SILVER-MOUNTED DHA SHORT SWORD WITH BONE HILT, LATE 19TH CENTURY. - This silver-mounted short sword, historically known as a Dha or Dha Hmyaung, is of Southeast Asian origin, likely from the Shan States or Burma. The hilt is composed of a long, slightly curved grip of polished ivory, which displays characteristic natural grain and longitudinal age-related checking. It is fitted with a silver ferrule decorated with two bands of fine twisted-wire filigree and granulated borders. The single-edged steel blade possesses a slight curve and a rounded tip; the surface presents a dull grey patina with visible areas of oxidisation and pitting, particularly concentrated near the hilt and along the spine. The scabbard is fully encased in silver-toned metal and is extensively decorated with applied wirework filigree. The decorative motifs include scrolling foliate patterns and three-lobed floral designs. The scabbard terminates in a flared, flat-topped chape featuring a central six-petaled filigree flower. A thick, braided orange textile suspension cord is wrapped and knotted around the upper portion of the scabbard.  L: Approximately 52cm