Is This A Barong Sword From Borneo?
 

I have had this barong for some time and I have always been puzzled by its unusual silver sleeve, particularly the garlic bulb shape and the carving which I haven't seen in any other barong. However as I was searching the net for images of swords from Borneo I stumbled upon a few images of parang latoks which have similar sleeves featuring the garlic shaped structure. So does that mean that my barong is from Borneo or at least the hilt is from Borneo (probably taken from a parang latok)? Pics comparing the barong with parang latoks from Oriental Arms. I would like to have your opinion regarding this. Thanks.

Hi Asian:

Short answer—I think it is. N. Borneo or the Sultanate of Brunei would be my guess. I have not seen a similar hilt on a barung. The structure of the hilt, with silver pieces interspersed with woven rattan strips over a hardwood core, is typical "Moro" work although (as you note) the silverwork is unusual.

I took the liberty of enhancing your image of the hilt to better see the pommel, but it is still rather indistinct. Can you post another picture with brighter lighting. The pommel gets a little lost with the dark background.

Regards,

Ian.


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Definitely a Dayak enhanced Borneo Barong or a Moro barong with Dayak hilt. Very nice and unusual. Thanks for posting this.

Lol, have done the same by reading Aslans thread and want to ask the same!

Thanks for the generous and enlightening opinions Ian and Battara. Here are additional images of the barong hilt as requested Sajen.