My new Moro kris

[kai]

Hello Detlef,

Good one - also like the mansala a lot! (I'd be even careful with shaking the dust from it since such old fabric can be pretty fragile...)

Seems that the blade is from the second half of the 19th c. (possibly later rather than earlier within this period, I'd believe); certainly laminated.

The fittings are Maguindanao with the asang-asang and hilt looking like somewhat later replacements. When you receive it, please check wether another asang-asang had been present on the upper gangya.

The scabbard looks old with nicely figured wood asking for cleaning. Seems like the wooden pins failed on one side at the throat (and perhaps the tip, too). Can probably be replaced but I'd consider leaving it as is. I wouldn't bother about the tip damage but another rattan ring will keep it tight if so desired. Be careful when drawing the sword though - old scabbards are rarely save to grip!

Regards,
Kai