A Moro Kris With Restoration Questions

[Sajen]

Originally Posted by Tim Simmons

Clearly been cut at the time of making. Why cut a hole to fill with the same wood? I have ivory and mop, also human teeth but that is a Fijian thing.

Hi Tim,

I don't think that there was any other material inlaid than wood, it could be that there was a knothole so the maker inlayed the same type of wood.

This place would be very unusual for an amulette.

Regards,
Detlef

[Tim Simmons]

I should stick to what I know . There is no going back know.

[Sajen]

Originally Posted by Tim Simmons

I should stick to what I know .

That's exactly the problem, we just don't know and only can guess!
I think Chiefheadknocker had once made the correct decision to let it like it is!

[Rick]

Originally Posted by Sajen

Hi Tim,

I don't think that there was any other material inlaid than wood, it could be that there was a knothole so the maker inlayed the same type of wood.

This place would be very unusual for an amulette.

Regards,
Detlef

Agree with Detlef. These woods have very contorted grain patterns and can often have voids or checks in the material. I expect these inlays are for this purpose.
Imagine putting all the work into shaping a beautifully grained pommel and coming across a void. Throw out your work or patch it with a matching piece.
I doubt these are talismanic at all.

[kai]

Hello Tim,

I'm with Detlef, Albert, and Rick - most certainly this was an inset wooden patch to repair any defect in the material. This is not unusual with Moro burlwood hilts, especially larger ones (cp. Albert's example).

An inlay from the same piece of wood will have blended in well. The position would not lend itself for any contrasting inset - just looks bad. As an alternative to keep it as is, you could try filling it with a resin paste with wood dust and matching color (or as last resort go for a blackish resin patch).

Regards,
Kai

[Tim Simmons]

I am not familiar with these weapons. I was surprised how heavy the blade is on this piece. I had a straight bladed version possibly of similar age, I think the blade was quite a bit lighter in weight. I sold it to Detlef he might still have it. When in your hand the cut rectangle does not stand out and jar the eye. All I have done is to colour the chipped area so it does not, hit your like a big pizza pie

[Sajen]

Originally Posted by Tim Simmons

I had a straight bladed version possibly of similar age, I think the blade was quite a bit lighter in weight. I sold it to Detlef he might still have it.

Jep, Tim, I still have it in my collection.