Indonesian dagger

[kai]

Thanks for the additional pics, Jeff!

Yes the scabbard is designed for the thin blade. The blade (24cm long) is actually quite sharp and would be suitable for food prep work if reincarnated as a kitchen knife.

Better don't try - somebody's ancestors wouldn't be amused, I guess!

The scabbard crosspiece does not seem to be terribly old which is in line with the carving. I'd guess that this piece got it's fittings revamped during the first half of the 20th century with possibly an even later replacement of the scabbard foot.

I have started to work on the rust but haven't cleaned the hilt or scabbard. I think what you are seeing as polishing compound is just reflection from the silver coating on the copper metal work. I can't tell if it is intentionally two-tone or if the silver coating is just worn off. The contrasting copper and silver may look nice polished up a bit but I'm hesitant to remove the copper patina.

Very likely worn off if original. Are you sure it's silver plated? The shine/color seems a bit weird but that might be my eyes or the digicam...

The piece on the foot is bone and seems to be an unnatural yellow hue. There is visible glue from sloppy work attaching it. Shame that it may diverge stylistically.

It certainly looks like a misguided repair attempt. At this level, the original probably wasn't made from ivory. Getting a replacement from horn or bone shouldn't be too difficult, I guess.

Regards,
Kai