Unusual Barong

[DaveS]

Here is a barong with a silver handguard and a floral motif on the blade.
Blade is 15 1/2 inches long, 22 inches long. No scabbard. I was told that
this style of barong might have originated from Mindanao. Any thoughts.
.........Dave.

[Spunjer]

yep. most likely from Lanao, second quarter of the century. notice how the handguard is similar to the gunongs that came from that area...

[Battara]

I totally agree with Ron. This is Maranao okir work and is more recent. They still do this work in Marawi City in Maranao territory.

Nice metal-work. Best recent okir blade work from this area I have seen.

[Nirghosa]

Lovely Maranao barong. Did you purchase it? I have seen pictures of this one. Far nicer than most Maranao pieces, there aren't that many.

[DaveS]

Nirghosa: I bought it from a dealer in the Philippines. I knew it wasn't that
old, but i just liked the overall look and the quality......Dave.

[Battara]

Yes, barong are not Maranao but Sulu. However, in recent years, Maranao artists have been making "Maranao-ized" barongs. :shrug:

[Nirghosa]

Yes, there are some marked differences but there can be some very nice Maranao barongs (as this thread clearly shows).
The feel is a bit different but my Maranao barong is one of favorite cutting items.
Congratulations on an excellent purchase Dave! One I would love to have as I primarily collect Maranao pieces.