Is This A Barong Sword From Borneo?

Ian · 16th November 2018, 11:48 AM

Hi Asian:

Short answer—I think it is. N. Borneo or the Sultanate of Brunei would be my guess. I have not seen a similar hilt on a barung. The structure of the hilt, with silver pieces interspersed with woven rattan strips over a hardwood core, is typical "Moro" work although (as you note) the silverwork is unusual.

I took the liberty of enhancing your image of the hilt to better see the pommel, but it is still rather indistinct. Can you post another picture with brighter lighting. The pommel gets a little lost with the dark background.

Regards,

Ian.

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16th November 2018, 11:48 AM	#2
Ian Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: The Aussie Bush Posts: 4,456	Hi Asian: Short answer—I think it is. N. Borneo or the Sultanate of Brunei would be my guess. I have not seen a similar hilt on a barung. The structure of the hilt, with silver pieces interspersed with woven rattan strips over a hardwood core, is typical "Moro" work although (as you note) the silverwork is unusual. I took the liberty of enhancing your image of the hilt to better see the pommel, but it is still rather indistinct. Can you post another picture with brighter lighting. The pommel gets a little lost with the dark background. Regards, Ian. . Attached Images