Sumatran Mystery?

David · 6th December 2014, 01:15 AM

Thanks Kai. I do indeed see the similarity in blade profiles, though with very different treatment to the backside of the blade (greneng et al).
I would have placed the sheath with a Palembang/South Sumatra attribution. Do you have any examples of sheaths from the northern end of the peninsula that have this form?
I shot these images some over a week ago. Since then we've had nothing but dark gray days here. As soon as i get some better light i will try to get those additional images of the hilt for you. I had considered the possibility that the horn could be a repair, though i also note that the figurative elements of the ivory portion (i.e. the feet) appear to be complete. Still doesn't discount repair, but gives me pause.
Given the time of year it will be a while before i might consider staining this blade if at all. I am curious if there is pamor though.

6th December 2014, 01:15 AM	#3
David Keris forum moderator Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Nova Scotia Posts: 7,211	Thanks Kai. I do indeed see the similarity in blade profiles, though with very different treatment to the backside of the blade (greneng et al). I would have placed the sheath with a Palembang/South Sumatra attribution. Do you have any examples of sheaths from the northern end of the peninsula that have this form? I shot these images some over a week ago. Since then we've had nothing but dark gray days here. As soon as i get some better light i will try to get those additional images of the hilt for you. I had considered the possibility that the horn could be a repair, though i also note that the figurative elements of the ivory portion (i.e. the feet) appear to be complete. Still doesn't discount repair, but gives me pause. Given the time of year it will be a while before i might consider staining this blade if at all. I am curious if there is pamor though.