Yes, old, definitely pre-1850, probably a lot older.
Could be either Bali or Jawa, I lean towards Jawa, but I'd need it in my hands to be reasonably sure.
If it is an option, I'd go for a complete clean and restain, then mount it in what we call "golok" dress, ie, like a dagger.
If the clean & stain is not an option I'd go for oil and mechanical I think.
I don't like partial cleans as Kai suggests, I'd possibly give it a WD40 soak, followed by brushing with a stiff brush, plastic or bristle, then spend time under good light with magnification and a pick, I like a saddlers awl for this sort of thing. Little bits of steel wool on the end of a sate stick can clean smooth areas.
|