Hello Detlef,
Thanks for your comments and keeping the ball rolling!
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the Malay origin seems to be a very good possibility also when the Makara from the Malay badek look slightly different
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Some details are quite similar, some others are missing though, indeed.
Note that the pommel size is different; utilizing horn also necessitates some changes at the mouth/etc. due to the hollow core as does functionality as a sword hilt.
Swords with these naturalistic makara pommel seem to be exceedingly rare and I've yet to find any well-provenanced examples. Given the differences between mine and Charles' pieces (and more differences compared to northern Malayan badek), I agree that we need to keep an open mind and more data.
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Sadly the handle missing it's upper handle sleeve.
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That's quite possible! I need to examine it personally to check for any hints...
The tassel seems to have some age - I'd guess that the current configuration has been in use for a while (post-WW2?).
Regards,
Kai