Nagaland or Assam ?

Ian · 3rd February 2017, 04:16 PM

Colin:

This simple style of wrapping with broad strips of rattan/bamboo is seen on some Naga items that appear to be more working tools than weapons (see here for a few examples). The better quality dao, which this one seems to be, usually have smaller strips of rattan/bamboo that are woven in a more intricate fashion than the wrap on this one.

Your dao also seems bigger than the usual Naga dao, which you note. I have not seen one exactly like it before. Your estimate of Assam or neighboring tribal areas of NE India does seem a likely origin.

Gavin has some experience with dao from these areas and may have seen a similar example.

Thanks for posting this unusual sword.

Ian.

3rd February 2017, 04:16 PM	#2
Ian Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: The Aussie Bush Posts: 4,363	Colin: This simple style of wrapping with broad strips of rattan/bamboo is seen on some Naga items that appear to be more working tools than weapons (see here for a few examples). The better quality dao, which this one seems to be, usually have smaller strips of rattan/bamboo that are woven in a more intricate fashion than the wrap on this one. Your dao also seems bigger than the usual Naga dao, which you note. I have not seen one exactly like it before. Your estimate of Assam or neighboring tribal areas of NE India does seem a likely origin. Gavin has some experience with dao from these areas and may have seen a similar example. Thanks for posting this unusual sword. Ian.