Interesting SEA knife for ID 'Parang Bengkok'

DaveA · 13th June 2011, 05:21 AM

Fascinating blade shape on these. I understand that kujangs were carried by pawang (medicine man) and thought to have magical powers. For your consideration, here is my kujang bikang for comparison. The blade measures 7 1/2" and 1/4" thick hand-forged spring steel. It is fully etched or engraved on both sides. It also has a 5" sharpened false-edge, fileworks; sharpened and hardened. The handle is 2 colors hardwood ("Sonokeling") with a mild steel ring. The sheath is stained hardwood, with a carved dragon in light varnish. The overall length is 13 1/4". Recent manufacture.

Amuk Murugul · 13th June 2011, 06:26 AM

Hullo DaveA,

Looks like it could have been made by the boys at Tjiwidej, Bandoeng. I'd say no earlier than 1960s.
BTW ..... 'pawang' is not really a Soenda word but to the Soenda its equivalent is 'malim', 'one who tames wild creatures'.
As for magical powers, well ..... that's a whole new ball-game.

Best,

DaveA · 13th June 2011, 10:31 PM

Excellent information, thank you Amuk!

13th June 2011, 05:21 AM	#1
DaveA Member Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Wisconsin, USA Posts: 416	For comparison, my "Kujang Bikang" Fascinating blade shape on these. I understand that kujangs were carried by pawang (medicine man) and thought to have magical powers. For your consideration, here is my kujang bikang for comparison. The blade measures 7 1/2" and 1/4" thick hand-forged spring steel. It is fully etched or engraved on both sides. It also has a 5" sharpened false-edge, fileworks; sharpened and hardened. The handle is 2 colors hardwood ("Sonokeling") with a mild steel ring. The sheath is stained hardwood, with a carved dragon in light varnish. The overall length is 13 1/4". Recent manufacture. Attached Images

13th June 2011, 10:31 PM	#3
DaveA Member Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Wisconsin, USA Posts: 416	Thank you Excellent information, thank you Amuk!

13th June 2011, 06:26 AM	#2
Amuk Murugul Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Kaboejoetan Galoenggoeng Mélben Posts: 472	Hullo DaveA, Looks like it could have been made by the boys at Tjiwidej, Bandoeng. I'd say no earlier than 1960s. BTW ..... 'pawang' is not really a Soenda word but to the Soenda its equivalent is 'malim', 'one who tames wild creatures'. As for magical powers, well ..... that's a whole new ball-game. Best,