Balinese/Lombok pedang

[kai]

Hello David,

It also seems odd that given the extensive wear on this blade that the inlay appears so pristine. You would think that it would be missing some areas of inlay as you see in the last example that Kai has posted if there was real age to it.

Maurice has a point though: it could also be argued the other way around (good quality work won't fail as easily). I guess we need additional approaches to get a better grip on these inlays.

So, is ANYONE able to translate the writing?

I've PMed Dom and hope he and his better half will have a look...

Regards,
Kai