I seem to have bought a Sewar.

[David R]

Went to a local arms and militaria fair today, and came back with a few prizes, of which this is one. I know beggar all about Indonesian weapons, but for some reason they keep ending up with me.
It's been on the buffer, so advice on getting some proper finish on it will be very welcome.
I think the mounts are a very hard wood, rather than horn, but yeah, thats how hard the wood is. The bands are probably silver alloy.

[ariel]

Very nice furniture.
Sewars are stabbing daggers and are not intended for slashing blows with likely hitting hard objects. I know about scarf welding, but just in case....
This sewar had a misfortune, but likely was important to to owner to justify the repair.
But the carving and the silver rings on the scabbard are very attractive.

[David R]

Originally Posted by ariel

Very nice furniture.
Sewars are stabbing daggers and are not intended for slashing blows with likely hitting hard objects. I know about scarf welding, but just in case....
This sewar had a misfortune, but likely was important to to owner to justify the repair.
But the carving and the silver rings on the scabbard are very attractive.

You have a keen eye, and this might explain the the bargain price.

[kai]

Hello David,

I think the mounts are a very hard wood, rather than horn, but yeah, thats how hard the wood is.

The scabbard once had a horn (or, less likely, ivory) tip; if the crosspiece is separate (sharp pics would help), I'm willing to bet it and the hilt being horn. Old horn can be getting quite fibrous, too.

This piece seems to originate from the coastal Malay population on both sides of the Straits (either eastern Sumatra or, just as likely, western Malay peninsula).

I'm not convinced this blade has been repaired - maybe the smith had to cope with limited resources. These blades are often made of non-contrasting laminations and rarely stained with warangan. A gentle etch may help to tone it down.

Regards,
Kai

[David R]

"The scabbard once had a horn (or, less likely, ivory) tip; if the crosspiece is separate (sharp pics would help), I'm willing to bet it and the hilt being horn. Old horn can be getting quite fibrous, too."

Certainly had a horn chape, there is still a fragment on one side. The rest looks to be as was.I am thinking of a gentle etch to take down the buffed shine. Vinegar, lime juice or the old standby....Worcester sauce!

[CharlesS]

Classic example! Really nice carving!

[David R]

Originally Posted by CharlesS

Classic example! Really nice carving!

Thank you. Sometimes a piece comes along totally unexpectedly, and this is that piece. I don't think the dealer knew what he had , and I am only just learning.

[Sajen]

Hello David,

Nice piece and I agree what others said already. Be very careful, they are very addictive!