Kampilan

[kai]

Hello Jose,

This is also from the Ilanun/Iranun tribe, perhaps mid 1800s?

I'm leaning towards a later date: At least the hilt does not appear to be an especially old example...
Also the twistcore surface appears to be almost pristine (compared to kalis with twistcore, that is). True enough, these status kampilan may have been more for show than action and seen less wear; however, the same could be argued for status kalis/kris... Also, twistcore in other Moro blades may have been kept smoother than in kalis/kris (and possibly spears); OTOH, there are so few examples around that, for the time being, I would not base any age estimate on it.

I'd also stipulate that we should have a very close look at the blade before assigning it to a specific ethnic origin (even if you base this on the hilt only). BTW, my apologies for not continuing our earlier discussion whether this hilt type really is specifically Ilanum vs. generic old-style - will try to follow up on this interesting topic when I find some more time.

Regards,
Kai