For comment #5

[A. G. Maisey]

The last one in this series.

[Jean]

An older version of Madurese sandang walikat or "soldier" wrongko?
Regards

[kai]

AFAIK, this is based on a traditional Madura scabbard style (with a somewhat cubistic design). Usually, this type exhibits a distinct cross-piece (which IMVHO does not really vibe with the sandang walikat category) and added protrusions along the lower sides.

I'd guess that this style with the added carving here is a later development. Any provenance details on this example, Alan?

Regards,
Kai

[A. G. Maisey]

Yes Kai, Sumenep, early 1980's.

I do not have a local name for it, it was purchased covered in filth. It is old.

[David]

I am curious what people think about the hilt. Though there is no particular anatomy that points directly to this it gives me the over all impression that it is feminine in nature. So could this be a form of wadon hilt or do some think it represents some specific figure?

[kai]

Thanks, David! I wanted to highlight this hilt as well but forgot.

I can't remember having seen such a hilt before! Not sure what kind of iconography is being referred to here.

Regards,
Kai

[kai]

Hello Alan,

Sumenep, early 1980's.

Thanks!

it was purchased covered in filth. It is old.

I agree that this is not Karmadikan; I was guessing at early 20th c.?


Are there any early examples of any of the heavily carved wronko types (lion, bird, floral) known?

You mentioned that these seem to be based on earlier non-kraton style(s). I hesitate to tag them with labels like "folk art" or "self-made" since some of these carvings clearly show a lot of effort as well as skill - more likely crafted by artisans on a local/village level?

Regards,
Kai

[David]

Originally Posted by kai

I hesitate to tag them with labels like "folk art" or "self-made" since some of these carvings clearly show a lot of effort as well as skill - more likely crafted by artisans on a local/village level?

Kai, while sometimes "folk art" can indeed be lacking in technical skill this is certainly not always the case. I have seen Alan use the term to describe certain Gabilan style wrongko and some of these have exquisite carvings. I think you can find a lot of good carvers work at many levels of society but these village artisans are carving shapes and motifs that are not according to established "pakem". For me at least that qualifies them as "folk art".

[Marcokeris]

Originally Posted by A. G. Maisey

The last one in this series.

Honestly I really don't like this kind of work...but, of course, is my personal taste