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Example 6. A tsep-sa (pronounced
"tsebh-sah") or Tibetan short sword likely dating from
the late 19th to early 20th Century. The hilt is composed of
an engraved iron pommel, ferrule and guard. A ray skin covered
grip of rectangular cross-section lies between the pommel and
ferrule. A red stone (coral?) is set on the display face of the
pommel. The blade is forged and of piled (layer welded) construction,
folded back at the tip. The scabbard is formed with the standard
"U" shaped iron frame. The front face and sides of
the frame are engraved and gold washed. A steel strip with silver
inlay and a similar red stone to that on the pommel forms the
distal front face of the scabbard. The opposite side of the scabbard
(not illustrated) is devoid of decoration. At the mouth end of
the scabbard is a strap of leather, possibly a later addition.
Overall length (including scabbard): 58.8 cm. (24 inches); blade
length: 44.1cm. (18 inches). Photographs courtesy of Artzi Yarom
of Oriental Arms.) |
