Moro Barong With Real(???) Chinese Influence: A Tortoise Shell Ferrule

[kai]

Hello Charles,

Thanks for posting this special barung!

Judging from the wood (and, partly, workmanship), the scabbard might be a somewhat later replacement.

Maybe the tortoise shell was also added to an antique hilt at a later time (like mid-20th c.), possibly replacing worn braiding or silver bands?

Regards,
Kai