Unknown handle

[Freddy]

I got this one today. The seller said it was an Indonesian handle, dating from before 1940. That's all she knows.

Perhaps some forumite might 'enlighten' me. If possible, can someone show me one with a blade.

The handle is made out of wood, with the lower portion covered with metal wire. The top has two man made holes, which don't connect.
Total length : 14,5 cm.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/keris_hanuman/Afbeelding002-10.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/keris_hanuman/Afbeelding003-8.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/keris_hanuman/Afbeelding006-3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/keris_hanuman/Afbeelding007-4.jpg

[Sajen]

Hello Freddy,
it would be interesting to see the handle in the view from the second picture complete.
regards,
sajen

[colin henshaw]

Its the broken-off tip from a Shona (Zimbabwe) dagger or sword, scabbard. The brass wire plaiting is typical.

Regards

[Freddy]

Sajen,

As requested a new pic.

Colin,

You are probably right. I've been searching for a similar Shona dagger on the net, but couldn't find one. Do you have a picture of a knife scabbard with a similar butt ?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/keris_hanuman/Afbeelding.jpg

[Lew]

I agree Zulu or Shona wire work. Shape of the hilt seems to be an elephant ears and trunk.



Lew

[colin henshaw]

Here is an image from an old Christies sale catalogue.

Regards