Old gunong with ivory hilt

[h0ll0wman]

I recently acquired this gunong through a trade. The ivory hilt was already loose (refer to the very last photo) hence I took the liberty of securing it properly. Too bad there is a deep dent on the hilt fittings. I also etched the blade showing some lamination patterns.

[Ian]

Despite the damage to the hilt, this is still a nice piece. I think it would benefit from cleaning and polishing the metal. The bulbous hilt looks Maranao to me, and it seems to have some age. Maybe late 19th-early 20th C.

[David]

I don't think we see this more bulbous hilt form until the early 20th century though. Looks more like perhaps the 1920s to me. But frankly i'm not sure there has been enough scholarly work on these wonderful little knives to verify.
I agree with Ian that this still a lovely addition to any collection despite the damage and would benefit from a better polishing of the metal furnishings as well. These aspects of a knife like this are supposed to shine. I would also treat that ivory as it looks fairly dried out. I have used mineral oil pretty successfully for that.
I only have two gunongs in my collection. Here is my one example that features an ivory pommel. A rather small example. The blade is only 5.25 inches.

[Sajen]

Originally Posted by David

I don't think we see this more bulbous hilt form until the early 20th century though. Looks more like perhaps the 1920s to me.

Agree with David, it's a later piece, I guess 1920 until 1930. But a very nice addition to any collection. And yes, it would benefit from better polishing.

Regards,
Detlef

[kino]

Too bad about the dent but as Ian stated “It’s still a nice piece”.

[Rafngard]

Originally Posted by Sajen

Agree with David, it's a later piece, I guess 1920 until 1930.

I'd agree with this estimate.

An absolutely gorgeous piece.

Thanks,
Leif

[Battara]

I'd add that this could easily be Maranao based on the okir.