Burmese dha, sword, 1885 (c)

Pointed leaf-shaped blade, with fuller on either side. Ferrule and pommel-cap of brass with knurled bands. Grip covered with ray skin.

During the three Burma conflicts, Burmese forces were armed with a mixture of muskets, spears, bows and dhas (swords). They generally preferred to fight in bamboo stockades or engage in jungle skirmishes. Whenever they deployed in the open field, superior British training and armaments prevailed. The Burmese army was also assisted by irregular tribesmen.

From a collection of objects relating to Commander Arthur Lye, Royal Indian Marine, and Brigadier General Robert Cobb Lye, 34th (Punjab) Regiment of Bengal Infantry (Pioneers).