Hello Ben & Ariel,
This eagle-like hilt is not Batak and probably not a very old style (late 19th century?); I'd agree that it's very likely ethnic Malay in origin.
Whether any given example originates from either side of the Straits is probably a moot point considering the mobile life style of the coastal Malay population in the region, at least prior to independence.
Regards,
Kai
|