Interesting Maranao naga (?) gunong

Ian · 7th January 2024, 10:40 AM

Hello Milandro,

I agree with much of what you say. The blade is not weapon grade, and I don't think it was ever intended to be used as a weapon. There are many such decorative/talismanic items around, as you noted, and this may be a rather high end example of a 20th C, purely decorative, Maranao piece. I say "high end" because of the gilt scabbard and fancy hilt. As I'm sure you are aware, historically gold decoration was reserved for Moro royalty and certain highly placed officials in the service of the Sultan.

My interest is more with the possible talismanic features of the piece, with its depiction of what I believe is a naga, running from end to end. This may have significance in its original culture.

I plan to remove the oxidation from the blade to get a better appreciation of its markings.

7th January 2024, 10:40 AM	#3
Ian Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: The Aussie Bush Posts: 4,361	Hello Milandro, I agree with much of what you say. The blade is not weapon grade, and I don't think it was ever intended to be used as a weapon. There are many such decorative/talismanic items around, as you noted, and this may be a rather high end example of a 20th C, purely decorative, Maranao piece. I say "high end" because of the gilt scabbard and fancy hilt. As I'm sure you are aware, historically gold decoration was reserved for Moro royalty and certain highly placed officials in the service of the Sultan. My interest is more with the possible talismanic features of the piece, with its depiction of what I believe is a naga, running from end to end. This may have significance in its original culture. I plan to remove the oxidation from the blade to get a better appreciation of its markings.