A nice old early 20th Century Bhutanese ”Patag” sword with an handcrafted openwork scabbard and hilt. These swords were worn by local rulers and authorities in Tibet and Bhutan.

The blade is of rather average quality wich is seen more often in Tibetan arms. The decoration of chiseling is more of their taste and is very well done. The Tibetan and Bhutanese weapons are known for their low grade quality because most of them were not always ment to use, but seen necessary when they were invaded by other nations. This example is ment to be used if needed, but the focus lays in the chiselwork on the scabbard and handle.

It must be mentioned that there are also very well made quality blades made in Tibet and Bhutan with different and complex multi-layered blades, but they are quite scarce.

Copyright by Peter Andeweg – 2020