TIBETAN/BHUTANESE SHORT SWORD

18^th century. The hilt and scabbard of steel, each with a small leather divider band. The steel surfaces in bordered panels of scrolling tendrils surrounded by foliage. 11 å?‰۝ wedge section blade with shallow fullers and original tool finish. Reverse with its leather belt strap. Untouched early example. See Rediscovering the Arms and Armor of Tibet, Rocca, #73 for a related example, where the author notes that these examples made in Bhutan are commonly found in Tibet.