Mandau Sanaman Mantikei mix with Djangkarang

[kai]

Hello, welcome to the forum!

I am originally Dayak from Central Kalimantan (Dayak Ngaju).

That's exciting to have someone from an originating culture here!

My great grandfather used to be known as blacksmith of Mandau, yet, none of his descendants now inherit his skills.

Are there possibly any other traditional bladesmiths that you could contact and who might pass on info before it goes extinct?

In central Kalimantan, the famous materials of Mandau only come from 2 kinds of stone:

If you could obtain samples and pics of these 2 as well as other ores utilized for making iron/steel and forging mandau that would be terrific!

Is one of these sources "iron sand" from rivers?

According to my grandfather story, back in times, when blacksmith wanted to forge Mandau, he will sing ‘karungut’ – a traditional song from Dayak Ngaju.

Any chance to get a translation of this song?


Sorry for so many questions/requests but I am sure the specialized mandau collectors will be thrilled to have you on our forum!

Let us know if we can help your quest with pics from our pieces or other other info.

Regards,
Kai