Beladah belabang for comment

[MacCathain]

Most of the examples of these I've seen have scabbards that are heavily decorated with wire and/or sheet metal of some sort. This one caught my eye because of its lack of decoration. I think it has a somewhat more dignified and distinguished appearance than those adorned with bling.

The staining on the blade tells me it may have some age to it. I believe the species of wood used in the hilt and scabbard are one and the same (and close inspection of the latter tells me that it has never been decorated). The difference in color may be due to the oils on the hand protecting the grip wood, while the scabbard was left bare.

Is the lack of ornamentation on the scabbard indicative of any particular time period, or regional connection?

Any insights, comments, etc. are welcome. Thanks.

[cel7]

I have had several of this type (parang nabur). Perhaps a decorated or undecorated scabbard has more to do with the price a buyer was willing to pay for it.

[Sajen]

I personally think that the scabbard is a later replacement! ;)

Nice sword!

[kai]

I'm with Detlef here - looks like a later (but old) resting scabbard.

The sword is antique. Nice example.

BTW, I'm not fully certain that the wooden part of the hilt is original (it might well be!).

Bling is common in SEA since a person is socially expected to show his/her status. Thus, there are more fancy examples and also more mundane pieces. Based on the blade and brass fittings, this seems to be of middle quality - the scabbard doesn't reflect this.

Regards,
Kai

[David R]

Same thinking here, a replacement "resting scabbard" for storage and/or transport. The metal bands are usually to hold the wooden sides of the scabbard together in a humid climate hard on glued joins.

[kronckew]

Mine, for ref., slightly more decorative, also with a plain (replacement) scabbard. It'd be easy to add a thick cord wrapped dha style baldric for carry.

[MacCathain]

Thanks, everyone, for your comments. The resting or storage scabbard concept makes a lot of sense.