ID please - Monkey hilt on klewang

[DaveA]

Hello all,

I've just received a klewang with this most interesting hilt. A monkey is clinging to the back of some type of monster, biting it.

I'm sure I've read about such hilts, but I cannot remember where or what.

Any thoughts about this hilt and/or the sword? (better pictures of sword soon)

Thank you.

Dave A.

[Sajen]

Hello Dave,

it's a balato from (south) Nias. The handle shows the lasara motif and what you call monkey is a bekhu (evil spirit). Seems to be an older example, the antique examples are headhunting swords. I have watched this sword by ebay, nice catch! :)

Regards,
Detlef

[DaveA]

Thank you Sajen for the information and especially for how quickly you replied!

Best Regards,

Dave A.

[Sajen]

Thank you Sajen for the information and especially for how quickly you replied!

Best Regards,

Dave A.

You're welcome Dave! Just was online on the forum and have seen your post. ;) Do a little bit search by the keyword "balato", special in old posts, there is an ex-member who have a great collection of antique balatos.

Regards,
Detlef

[Sajen]

Here you can see some real antique Balatos from South Nias: http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=3352&highlight=balato
Here another one: http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=13746&highlight=balato
One more: http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=13926&highlight=balato

Best,
Detlef