A new barong

Ian · 21st October 2017, 08:09 PM

Hi Apolaki:

Like Robert has said, I would place this one as mid-20th C., probably post WWII. The scabbard has the characteristics of a Yakan barung scabbard most likely sold in Zamboanga. The hilt has been replaced by someone from outside the Moro culture and, as Robert noted, has a garden hose fitting for the ferrule.

I think the hilt was likely redone by a Westerner, and that this knife was likely brought back by a U.S. serviceman in the 1950s. I have seen similar barung in the past with westernized "modifications" that could be traced to GI bringbacks.

If by "black marks" you mean the spots on the blade, these are old oxidation of the iron.

Ian.

21st October 2017, 08:09 PM	#1
Ian Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: The Aussie Bush Posts: 4,362	Hi Apolaki: Like Robert has said, I would place this one as mid-20th C., probably post WWII. The scabbard has the characteristics of a Yakan barung scabbard most likely sold in Zamboanga. The hilt has been replaced by someone from outside the Moro culture and, as Robert noted, has a garden hose fitting for the ferrule. I think the hilt was likely redone by a Westerner, and that this knife was likely brought back by a U.S. serviceman in the 1950s. I have seen similar barung in the past with westernized "modifications" that could be traced to GI bringbacks. If by "black marks" you mean the spots on the blade, these are old oxidation of the iron. Ian.