Gunong...recent or vintage?

[David]

Originally Posted by shayde78

So, it's not the size that counts!

Well, as i understand it this was originally intended to be a small weapon, one that could be easily concealed.
It was when colonial American powers placed a ban on swords, i believe, that we saw the gunong lengthen to compensate.

[Battara]

Detlef is correct. In the late 1800s the gunong was small and not well ornamented. By the 1930s they were up to twice the size and often greatly ornamented.

[shayde78]

So...if the smaller ones can be either earlier functional examples OR later tourist versions...how does one tell the difference?

[Ian]

Originally Posted by shayde78

So...if the smaller ones can be either earlier functional examples OR later tourist versions...how does one tell the difference?

Hi Shayde78,

That's where a lot of reading and asking questions helps. There are general signs of wear and age that help, but seeking out high quality pieces (good workmanship and materials) is always worthwhile regardless of age. Many modern pieces are still functional.

Some recently made gunong are definitely collectible and retain their value.

Ian.

[Battara]

I wish Federico Malibago still had his site up. It had the most information on gunongs I had ever seen, and we have used this info on this forum.