My new barong/barung
 

Hello all,
one of my latest acquisitions has turned up and I was hoping for some help in identifying it (age, area etc).
the overall length is 530mm / 20.5 inch, blade length 390mm / 15.5inch
blade thickness nearest to hilt sleeve 8mm / 5/16inch
the blade looks like it has been taken to with possibly an abrasive
the hilt seems to be horn?
thanks for any help provided

What a nice quality example! The pommel does, indeed, look like horn which is quite rare! Nice carving too! I would suggest trying to etch the blade on this one. It may have a very "active" pattern in the blade.

Great pick up!!

I agree with Charles - etch the blade - I see the possibility of patterns in the blade.

I also agree with Charles - this is horn, rare, and I like the carvings.

Would you post pictures of the top of the pommel please?

On date - I am thinking as is - last quarter of the 19th century. Where? - well harder but certainly in the Sulu region.

Thanks guys,
have posted more pics of the pommel, let me know if you want more pics
thanks

Beautiful barung! :eek:

Great barong Imas560 , I really like seeing these horn hilted ones in particular. Congratulations on a finding such a beautiful new addition to your collection. Looking forward to seeing what an etch might reveal.


Best,
Robert

Thanks everyone,
I'm hunting through posts to the forum to find best way to etch.