Amanremu

[kai]

Hello Roy,

I still think that something has been removed from the ferrule.

Could you post some close-ups?

Quite possible that there was silver on the horns. Not possible to tell now.

I believe, the ridges at the base of the "jaws" are an indication of a former metal cover.

I have quite a few other Sumatran swords so although not rare, they are not common in the UK.
This one is comparatively rare in my opinion.

It certainly is one of the rarer swords. While the UK did not had much colonial stakes in the area, there were avid collectors. Thus, I've seen offerings from the UK as well as elsewhere (globally). Obviously, it always depends on where you shop and how much you're willing to pay.

Regards,
Kai

[Royston]

My other Sumatran swords.
Cheers
Roy

PS I will try close ups tomorrow

[Sajen]

Great collection of North Sumatra swords!

[Royston]

Kai, here you are. Not the best photos in the world but I think you will see whay I say there has been some "removal". I am sure there are traces of suassa remaining.
Regards
Roy

[kai]

Hello Roy,

Thanks for the close-ups!

I say there has been some "removal". I am sure there are traces of suassa remaining.

Yes, it looks like a band of suasa that mostly got rubbed off, indeed.

There also has been some patching of the silver underneath and I was wondering whether also the suasa was patching: Looks more like an additional band though - possibly a quite early upgrade.

Regards,
Kai