Bhutanese Sword

A high quality silver and gold mounted Bhutanese short sword.  The hilt has a pommel cap made of pierced and gilded silver with the top having a gold dragon surrounded by silver scrollwork.  The front panel has a gilt half-moon flanked with two gaping monster heads and a lower ju-i shaped cloud, all set in silver scrollwork.  The rear panel has a honey comb window pattern with interlocking Y shaped motifs. The faceted wooden grip is tightly wrapped in silver braided wire and there is a beaded rim at the top and bottom.  A short silver collar between the hilt and blade.

A straight single edged blade of traditional form shows a pattern which indicates that the bright steel was made by means of a technique known as 'Hair-pin folding'.

The scabbard of timber core is covered with thick silver sheet with a beaded scabbard mount and gilt scrollwork.  A large central panel with gilt bands and W shaped motifs all containing chased scrollwork and floral patterns.  An integral loop, decorated with gold scrolls, holds a red canvas strap which would be used to secure the sword to the belt of its owner.

See LaRocca, no.73, p.171 for a similar sword.