Sumatra dagger for comment

[JeffS]

I acquired this recently from a forum member. I have found a few examples online (including discussion here, search for sekin) with the distinctive hilt style including the example below from the old Oriental Arms site. Clearly related to the "Sekin I" per Zonneveld but lacking the rencong-like flair at the base of the blade. Does this style belong to a specific cultural group?

[JeffS]

Bumping this, hoping for some comments...

[kai]

Hello Jeff,

I acquired this recently from a forum member. I have found a few examples online (including discussion here, search for sekin) with the distinctive hilt style including the example below from the old Oriental Arms site. Clearly related to the "Sekin I" per Zonneveld but lacking the rencong-like flair at the base of the blade.

Yes, I believe this can be considered to be a genuine sekin: The fittings are typical for one of two distinct styles commonly associated with sekin. Their blades do come with additional variations, indeed.

Does this style belong to a specific cultural group?

This style is attributed to originate from the Padang highlands. However, the Minang Kabau exhibit lots of local cultural differences which hardly have been documented.

Regards,
Kai