KALIS BISAYA

[Amuk Murugul]

Originally Posted by kino

Amuk Murugul, you have a nice collection of swords. Thanks for sharing.



I have a question about the descriptions, what does Awang mean? I noticed that 1-5 have Awang in their names. Also, the classification for #1, is Siam Sekoe, does Siam mean 9?
It's interesting that the descriptive on the handle is Sari Manoek, Spunjer had started a thread on his theory that Moro pommels that have been called kakatua's are believed to be the Sarimanok. Does the Bisaja's of Kalimantan refer to these hilts/pommels as Sari Manoek?
BTW, I wouldn't mind adding any of your kalis to my collection..

Hullo Kino,

'AWANG' is an ancient honorary title.
Yes, 'SIAM' does indeed mean '9'.
Depending on whether those you speak to have remained true to their ancient heritage or adopted other influences, yes, the term is 'SARIMANO(E)K', depending on accent etc.
'KAKATUA' is an ancient word meaning 'spiny-parrot'. (I don't believe that people 'in-the-know' would've coined that term, as cockatoos were not 'central' to their way of life. 'nuff said! )

It is praise indeed should a fellow collector not mind having one of my pieces in his/her collection. Thanks!

Best,