Looks like a good one?

[kai]

Congrats, Tim, that's a really good first one!

I am not familiar with these weapons. This is very interesting, the quality and lightness reminds me of some of the best African work. I would say it handles much better than the best African sword like weapons.

Bait, hook, and line...


I'd guess this originates from the 2nd half of the 19th century, maybe late 19th c. I'd be interested to hear wether Jose confirms his first impression of a Maguindanao origin. There seems to be a bit of Sulu influence, too.

BTW, the blade length of 22" is correct?

I can see that there is a forge pattern in the blade.

The blade would certainly benefit from a light etch with hot vinegar - this brings out the pattern quite nicely and is the traditional style rather than keeping the blade in high polish.

There is a curious forge welded right angle section at the base of the blade before the separate guard piece.

That's an old tang repair. I assume the other side looks alike?

It is all compete with no damage to the pommel which I thought was damaged.

I think there was an old damage to the top end of the pommel which has been polished out long, long ago. No problem, seems like several Moro generations lived happily with it.

There certainly was a silver "ferrule" at the base of the hilt. The grip bindings have been redone (good quality), so it's possible that there was even a bit more silverwork to the hilt originally.

The elephant's face at the gangya seems to have been modified - probably the trunk got damaged and needed to be shortened.

The scabbard is very interesting, made of two pieces of wood. One piece has the scabbard mouth carved as part of it. The other piece slots in, both pieces are fixed at the end by a horn ring and rattan binding.

That's a construction not often seen. The scabbard seems to be of real age which is a rare sight these days. I really like it!

It seems to me a quality weapon and its plain appearance may reflect a more back woods origin?

I'd guess that the owner was a common warrior. Only Moro of higher status were allowed to wear more ornate kris.

I think I can understand the hullabaloo about these weapons a little more.

Bait, hook, and line...

Regards,
Kai

[Bill M]

Tim,

YOU ARE HOOKED!!! Yeah, swing that puppy (Albovias-ism ) around a while. You will be setting search eBay engines for more of 'em!

Email me.