Unusual metal handle barong

JeffS · 19th February 2025, 01:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by xasterix

Halloo Jeff! This a Maranao-made "keping." It's usually mistaken for barung since there are some slight similarities; but the overall aesthetic and blade profile is different.

You know, I had that thought it could be a keping as I recalled that there were a number of threads on the topic but for some reason I didn't run it down. Im pleased to be receiving one. Have you seen a full metal handle on these before? Any thoughts on age?

Ian · 19th February 2025, 02:09 PM

Hi Jeff,

Xasterix can probably give you the best age estimate. Most of this type of Maranao brass/bronze metalwork seems to be post-WWII. My guess is that yours is mid-20th C or later. As Marawi craftsmen ramped up their production for Filipino and foreign consumption in the marketplace, a lot more brass/bronze scabbards and hilts appeared in the 1970s and are still found in Manila and other main centers.

19th February 2025, 02:09 PM	#2
Ian Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: The Aussie Bush Posts: 4,453	Hi Jeff, Xasterix can probably give you the best age estimate. Most of this type of Maranao brass/bronze metalwork seems to be post-WWII. My guess is that yours is mid-20th C or later. As Marawi craftsmen ramped up their production for Filipino and foreign consumption in the marketplace, a lot more brass/bronze scabbards and hilts appeared in the 1970s and are still found in Manila and other main centers.