Panabas!!

[Bill M]

Originally Posted by FenrisWolf

Yup! I didn't even bother bidding after losing out on the first one, especilly since I'm trying to break the habit of trying to have a little of everything!

But as to yours; after looking at the pics of the ebay piece and comparing it to yours, I'd have to agree to the ceremonial/status symbol concept. The flat surfaces of the hilt may lend themselves well to ornamental carving, but I can't imagine they'd be very comfortable for regular use. Perhaps a chief's symbol signifying his power of high justice (he must be the chief, he can cut off your head!)?

Thank you Brian,

For your kind words.

I wanted to say that I noticed that there is a picture of my barong in this thread. Somehow got into the same file as my panabas. Should not be here, but too late to edit the tread and remove it. If there is interest, I can make a new thread about it.

The panabas did come from the private collection of a major PI collector who have been collecting for 30 or 40 years.