Iban Piso Podang (big images)

[asomotif]

As this sword didn't originate among the Bataks, but in India, and as it is found independently, without any Batak connection, in Peninsular Malaysia as well as Brunei, Sarawak and Sabah I think it's incorrect to label it a Piso Podang (the Portugese influenced Batak term).

Michael,
I already hoped that you would step in. as you often have the more correct background info

Nice example Michael you have there.
Interesting is that the scabbard has no metal fittings.
Often to me that is one of the indicators for Borneo origins.

The problem nowadays however is that among the tourist shops in Kuching Sumatran keris and swords are imported and sold as souvenirs also in Sarawak.

Yes, this development is really killing for collectors and for correct details.
A lot of the vendors appear to be from chinese origin, selling "original borneo antiques".

I encountered the same on Zanzibar, some 10 years ago.
Indian salesmen would sell woodcarvings, masks an statues from literally all over Africa in their shop on Zanzibar and sell them as "Zanzibar" antiques.
While in fact original items from Zanzibar where hard to find.

Best regards,
Willem