28th February 2010, 04:25 PM | #1 |
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Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Greenville, NC
Posts: 1,857
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An Unusual Moro Barong/Barung....any ideas??
This is a relatively late Moro barong, but very elegant and unique with its elongated blade, lime filled carving, and MOP inlays. The sword is 28 inches overall, with a 22 inch blade that is 2 inches at its widest.
The blade seems to be suffering from an identity crisis as it is very awkward to handle. It seems not be able to decide if it's a cleaver-like traditional barong/barung, or a stabber/slasher type, more like a N. Philippines talibon. The blade puts a lot of pressure on the hilt and the enclosed tang, making it very cumbersome to handle. It shows it has certainly seen age, wear and tear, and handling, but I think it was exclusively a "looker". Anybody think it may be an attempt to "marry" Moro and northern styles?? Thanks in advance for any ideas or input! |
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