Bagobo sword

Ian · 25th March 2005, 06:06 PM

Hi dan:

Good to have you back. That's a very nice example of the small kampilan probably prduced by the Tagakaolo (aka Kaolu) near Davao City in Mindanao. The Kaolu live adjacent to the Bagobo, and not surprisingly share weapons that are very similar in appearance. This could be a Bagobo sword, but the hilt is more consistent with the Kaolu, and there is no beadwork on the scabbard which is almost invariably present on Bagobo swords.

In the past, and perhaps on the old Forum, I would have called your example Bagobo, but I was informed of the distinction between Bagobo and Kaolu swords about two years ago. Many dealers still call these "Bagobo" because the Bagobo are a better known tribe (and their craftwork is considered better quality).

Ian.

25th March 2005, 06:06 PM	#17
Ian Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: The Aussie Bush Posts: 4,398	Hi dan: Good to have you back. That's a very nice example of the small kampilan probably prduced by the Tagakaolo (aka Kaolu) near Davao City in Mindanao. The Kaolu live adjacent to the Bagobo, and not surprisingly share weapons that are very similar in appearance. This could be a Bagobo sword, but the hilt is more consistent with the Kaolu, and there is no beadwork on the scabbard which is almost invariably present on Bagobo swords. In the past, and perhaps on the old Forum, I would have called your example Bagobo, but I was informed of the distinction between Bagobo and Kaolu swords about two years ago. Many dealers still call these "Bagobo" because the Bagobo are a better known tribe (and their craftwork is considered better quality). Ian.