Padsumbalin Panabas...

[Ian]

Here are pictures of an older example that I posted some time ago on the old EEWRS Forum. This is probably a Tausug (Sulu) panabas, with a handle covered in brass rings that have some simple inscribed designs.

This one came from an old Philippines collection via a dealer in Manila whom I have known and bought from for more than 10 years. I am confident it is a 19th C. example based on the provenance provided by this dealer.

Ian.

[Battara]

Well I'm not saying mine has "ornate" bands, but they are white metal, unusual for a panabas still. It formally belonged to Cato and the spine of 15 "x"s is pictured in his book, p.92, photo #58.

Say, is it me or is there a theme? So far, the ornate ones (excluding those used exclusively for war) appear to be what Cato calls the "scimitar" bladed types.

[Federico]

Originally Posted by Battara

Say, is it me or is there a theme? So far, the ornate ones (excluding those used exclusively for war) appear to be what Cato calls the "scimitar" bladed types.

Interesting observation, wish I could comment, but having not really seen or studied many panabas, I cant form an opinion as to trends, or if it is just our collections that is throwing off patterns. I would be curious to hear if this is other's experience as well.

[Rick]

Not much fancy work on either of these .
A small decorative carved band on the small one is about it .
No signs of former glory either .

[Federico]

Originally Posted by Ian

Here are pictures of an older example that I posted some time ago on the old EEWRS Forum. This is probably a Tausug (Sulu) panabas, with a handle covered in brass rings that have some simple inscribed designs.

This one came from an old Philippines collection via a dealer in Manila whom I have known and bought from for more than 10 years. I am confident it is a 19th C. example based on the provenance provided by this dealer.

Ian.

I would be interested in knowing why you feel this is probably a Tausug panabas. Cato seems adamant in his book that the panabas that he could not find any concrete evidence that the weapon was used in the Sulu Sultanate.