Hello Yves,
Nice restoration job on this barung. The banati root wood hilt is interesting. The carving is very nicely done, and I see that one of the problems working with root wood is already showing. They like to crack along unusual planes because the "grain" runs in many directions, reflecting the root structure. You can see the complex grain on the top of the pommel. Root wood can be very tough and is often difficult to carve and sand back to smooth finish. I would suggest that your dad keeps this hilt well oiled and does not let it dry out. Humid tropical conditions may help reduce the tendency to crack.
Most of the Chinese blades I have seen with "chop" marks had been made in the 19th C, and this one is probably from that period too. Hopefully, someone here can help with a translation.
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