Ethnographic Arms & Armour - View Single Post

Ian · 11th March 2023, 12:52 AM

Hello Yves,

I believe you are talking about the smaller of the two swords that you show.The one on the right, the shorter of the two, looks to be a Sulu blade that once had twin asang asang. It's relatively short length next to the late 19th C kris would suggest that it is probably as old as, perhaps older than, late 19th C. Even Sulu swords tended to get longer around the late 19th/early 20th C. Actual dimensions of the two swords would be interesting to know. The sword is also mounted in a well worn Sulu style scabbard (which may not be original), compared with the Mindanao/Maranao scabbard shown for the larger sword.

All up, I think you have a nice antique Sulu kris that has received a lot of use and makeover by its prior owners. The replacement hilt is obvious, and the wrapping of the scabbard is probably not original. One asang asang is missing now.

Nice old sword that could probably tell a few tales!

11th March 2023, 12:52 AM	#2
Ian Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: The Aussie Bush Posts: 4,363	Hello Yves, I believe you are talking about the smaller of the two swords that you show.The one on the right, the shorter of the two, looks to be a Sulu blade that once had twin asang asang. It's relatively short length next to the late 19th C kris would suggest that it is probably as old as, perhaps older than, late 19th C. Even Sulu swords tended to get longer around the late 19th/early 20th C. Actual dimensions of the two swords would be interesting to know. The sword is also mounted in a well worn Sulu style scabbard (which may not be original), compared with the Mindanao/Maranao scabbard shown for the larger sword. All up, I think you have a nice antique Sulu kris that has received a lot of use and makeover by its prior owners. The replacement hilt is obvious, and the wrapping of the scabbard is probably not original. One asang asang is missing now. Nice old sword that could probably tell a few tales!