Dagger for Identification

[kai]

Thanks. I'd never seen one with such an extreme handle, nor with a fullered blade, so hadn't thought of that classification.

Yes, it definitely is a badik from Sulawesi: This blade shape with a pronounced belly as well as the steeply angled/curving hilt suggest that it originates from the region of Lompobattang.

Most badik are meant for punching and come with slender, agile blades. Some of those blades with more pronounced belly have more heft to them and can feel more like a small meat cleaver. Adding a fuller makes sense if the balance needs to be improved.

Pretty much all antique badik from Sulawesi sport laminated or even pattern-welded blades (i.e. with pamor). It would be worth checking this example even if it most likely is monosteel.

From the craftsmanship and attaching the tang with paper/textile, I'd guess this piece hails from the first half of the 20th century, possibly around WW2.

Regards,
Kai