19th C. Indian Naga Steel, Wood & Rattan Headhunter Dao

**Originally Listed At $300**

Central Asia, India, Assam, Naga Hills, Naga culture, ca. 19th century CE. A fine Naga headhunter's sword known as a dao with a stocky wooden handle tightly wrapped with braided rattan fibers for grip. The forged-steel blade has a straight profile with a thick spine, an inward-curved blade edge similar to a barber's razor, and a rounded, blunt tip. The Naga people include a number of tribes in northeastern India and northwestern Burma. During the time that this weapon was made, they still led a traditional lifestyle and engaged in headhunting. This style of weapon was either acquired by manufacturing, trading, or raiding other tribes. Size: 24.8" L x 1.75" W (63 cm x 4.4 cm)

For a stylistically similar example with a slightly longer blade, please see The Metropolitan Museum of Art, accession number 36.25.1289.

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA, acquired between 2000 and 2005; ex-Fagan Arms, Clinton Township, Michigan, USA

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#151933
Condition Report: Loosening to some braided rattan fibers on handle, with light pitting to handle and blade, and minor fissures to handle, otherwise intact and very good. Light earthen deposits and nice patina throughout.