Unusual Barong
 

Here is a barong with a silver handguard and a floral motif on the blade.
Blade is 15 1/2 inches long, 22 inches long. No scabbard. I was told that
this style of barong might have originated from Mindanao. Any thoughts.
.........Dave.

yep. most likely from Lanao, second quarter of the century. notice how the handguard is similar to the gunongs that came from that area...

I totally agree with Ron. This is Maranao okir work and is more recent. They still do this work in Marawi City in Maranao territory.

Nice metal-work. Best recent okir blade work from this area I have seen.

Lovely Maranao barong. Did you purchase it? I have seen pictures of this one. Far nicer than most Maranao pieces, there aren't that many.

Unusual Barong
 

Nirghosa: I bought it from a dealer in the Philippines. I knew it wasn't that
old, but i just liked the overall look and the quality......Dave.

Yes, barong are not Maranao but Sulu. However, in recent years, Maranao artists have been making "Maranao-ized" barongs. :shrug:

Yes, there are some marked differences but there can be some very nice Maranao barongs (as this thread clearly shows).
The feel is a bit different but my Maranao barong is one of favorite cutting items.
Congratulations on an excellent purchase Dave! One I would love to have as I primarily collect Maranao pieces.