Wedung or similar? Id needed

[kai]

Hello Rob,

I fully agree this blade is not related at all!

This almost certainly is a Sumatran piece - no close relationship with any blade from Java or Bali here.

AFAIK, wedong serve a ceremonial purpose and, in the case of those worn in the kraton, are deliberately fashioned to be unsuitable as a weapon. The false edge on your blade would seem to defeat that design.

I don't believe the false edge alters function a lot - this still seems to be a chopping/slashing blade.

More importantly, while the wedung/wedong Jawa mainly is a ceremonial blade, it's (at least symbolic) function is basically being a machete to clear, for example, a trail for the ruler; I'd posit that its shape does reflect this (potential) use rather than being crippled on purpose. In a pinch, this blade type still lends itself to fighting if needed: it resembles heavy badik or smaller barung. Moreover, members of the court carried at least a keris which would pose a greater threat.

I could be wrong but, given the size and shape of the integral blade bolster, I suspect that the hilt isn't original to the blade. The bolster looks like something found on a bade bade.

For some Sumatran blades, there is a distinct step between hilt and bolster. Let's see if there are any hints for any recent modifications. I'd guess it's probably original.

Regards,
Kai

[kai]

Hello Sid,

Congrats, a really neat piece - I especially like the inserted brass dots!

Please post more pics when it arrives.

Regards,
Kai

[SidJ]

Originally Posted by kai

Hello Sid,

Congrats, a really neat piece - I especially like the inserted brass dots!

Please post more pics when it arrives.

Regards,
Kai

Thanks Kai
Bought on a whim. Hopefully its worth it. I will certainly post pics when it arrives.
Best
Sid

[kai]

Bought on a whim. Hopefully its worth it.

Definitely, Sid - in case you ever get bored with it...

[SidJ]

Thanks both
I am grateful.
Yes the Sumatran rawit knives have this step between bolster and hilt and a somewhat similar shape. See pics in Zonneveld. The greneng reminds me of Rencong from Aceh. Micheal suggested Minang possibly. If Sumatra is this a fighting or utility blade or both? It bears signs of use and the brass inlays and details in construction are interesting suggesting perhaps a step up from a pure agrarian tool?
Best
Sid

[kai]

Hello Sid,

The greneng reminds me of Rencong from Aceh. Micheal suggested Minang possibly.

Yes, this feature might well be based on the Atjeh rencong.

I'd tend to guess at the northern Minang border region or, probably, Mandailing/Angkola (areas heavily affected during the padri wars).

If Sumatra is this a fighting or utility blade or both? It bears signs of use and the brass inlays and details in construction are interesting suggesting perhaps a step up from a pure agrarian tool?

Also tools are often embellished; this looks like an everyday carry to me.

Regards,
Kai

[SidJ]

Kai
Pic added. Big and robust blade.