Ian and Stu - thank you for your considered responses.
A little more information - it is definitely skin of some description, though I understand thinking it might be a weave - I have a couple of naga dao with nicely woven bi-colour rattan.
The Russell's Pit Viper is a remarkable match! Thanks for spotting that.
On closer examination I think the pommel might actually be constructed from two, possibly three different metals. A redder, possibly copper alloy, a yellower, possibly brass element and the final flat button a darker grey metal.
It is possible that the hilt, locket and chape are later additions - but I'm not sure. Something indefinable in the visual balance and close-up viewing of the piece makes me feel they were constructed together. It is a very well made, good quality item.
Montagnard is an interesting suggestion - not an area of tribes I know much about.
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