I do not know much about the intricacies of Far Eastern stuff. However in this picture there is a melon/watermelon which is often seen in late 19th century Japanese metalwork. Often motifs made in alloys of gold and silver attached to bronze items many sold to visitors in the late 19th early 20th century. I do not see this as a true weapon as the bone? loop on the scabbard seems the wrong material for the function intended. The distal end of the blade does look Indonesian/Borneo perhaps even the Philippines? To me it is not old. Perhaps made for a Japanese chap while in the Philippines some time ago?
On reflection I rather fancy Freddy was right from the start. Borneo made for a Japanese customer. Also anything said to be stunning by a seller is to say the least questionable IMHO.
Last edited by Tim Simmons; 7th April 2008 at 09:37 PM.
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