Rare topo from Flores

[Sajen]

Originally Posted by VVV

Here is what they look like if you buy them in Indonesia nowadays.
I got mine in 2005 and I don't think it is much older...

But it's of course another matter if you hold it in your hand.
If you are convinced that it is the real thing then probably it is.
It just looks less like a weapon than those I have seen in other collections.
Is it heavy when you handle it and does it have the weight at the tip?

Michael

PS I don't think they are the same as Belida.
The Belida blades are much better and also longer, more like the Pade/Klewang type.
Check 'stick sword' in van Z for a reference picture.

Hi Michael,

I never come across such a sword in Indonesia. Your one don't look so bad from the pictures. Do you have tried to remove the corrosion? Or do you see a lamination? The spine from yours look good from the pictures. How thick is the blade at the handle?
I think the thickness of mine and the lamination are good signs. I have the experience that later swords from the Lesser Sunda Islands haven't a lamination and the blades are much more slim.

My one is heavy in the hand and you are correct, the weight is at the tip.
And again, I have no doubts about the information from the seller.

When I will find the time I will work at the blade and hope that I will be able to make the lamination visible again.

Best regards,

Detlef

[VVV]

Hi Detlef,

Actually I haven't handled it for several years and now I am not sure were I put it. I remember I cleaned it and was disappointed about its weight and feeling. My other Flores swords are much heavier and with better blades. I will take another look at it when I have found it.

Michael