[CharlesS]

Here is a lovely old, I am assuming 19th century, Beladah Belabang(what we once called a parang nabur) of a quality I have not encountered before in these.

The heavy, thick blade is superbly forged with its fullers cut out for a decorative appearance. The blade is covered in gold koftgari of extremely high quality and features an Arabic cartouche on darkened steel on each side AND along the spine. I am hoping to get some help with translation of this cartouches. Thanks in advance for any help.


Note the hilt's horn is carved in a better than typical fashion with a lovely floral row on each side of the top and detailed floral pommel. The ferrule is quality silver and not much, if any, alloy.

While some of the gold koftgari floral motifs look quite Islamic, especially those surrounding the cartouches, there are other areas, notably at the forte and far end of the cartouches, that look more European in style to my eye. Also note the koftgari on the hilt knuckle bow...to me this looks very European. I am wondering what others think of this and if they agree.

This was a great Christmas surprise and I am thrilled to have it.

Constructive input is always appreciated.