Silver hilted Moro/Malay kris

[Ian]

A recent purchase, these are the auction site's pictures.

This 19th C Moro/Malay kris has a blade with a central fuller running almost to the tip. That style of blade has been discussed here previously, along with its possible Malay origin.

What is somewhat remarkable about this sword is the hilt. The grip area has alternating bands of woven silver wire, segmented with fancy silver bands. The kakatua pommel has engraved silver panels on each side, and silver on the the tips of the beak and crest.

A single silver asang asang has been rotated at some point. It gives the appearance of a partial guard, but it is too soft to provide any protection and may simply be loose. I will know more when it arrives.

Both the blade and the silver hilt suggest a prestigious sword owned by an influential datu.
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