A Sulawesi sword for discussion

[Sajen]

Originally Posted by JeffS

Nice match with the alameng. I can't help with the handle. The leather over wood with silver does not seem like a common Sulawesi feature, nor elsewhere in Indonesia from my (limited) experience. The spiral feature at base of the blade is certainly common for Sulawesi, we were recently commentng on that on another thread. I like the topographic lamination, do you suppose that could have been an intentional finish versus extensive material loss?

Hi Jeff,

Thank you very much for your comment! The leather cover on the scabbard is indeed seldom seen by Indonesian blades i.e. their scabbards but I've seen a few, especially by Javanese swords. And yes, I am pretty sure that the topographic lamination is a result of corrosion and afterwards cleaning.

Regards,
Detlef

[Maurice]

Hi,

I've seen leather covered scabbards several times on old (or even very old) swords from different areas.
For instance on javanese pedang, south Celebes swords, achenese swords (peudeueng) etc.

Best,
Maurice

[Maurice]

This was my south Celebes sword with VOC blade (made original in Solingen for cutlasses / hangers, and with sword cutters marks/VOC monograms/VOC chamber initials/date).

The scabbard is leather over wood, and silver mountings.
(photo credits: Peter Dekker / Mandarin Mansion)

[Sajen]

Originally Posted by Maurice

This was my south Celebes sword with VOC blade (made original in Solingen for cutlasses / hangers, and with sword cutters marks/VOC monograms/VOC chamber initials/date).

The scabbard is leather over wood, and silver mountings.
(photo credits: Peter Dekker / Mandarin Mansion)

Great example Maurice! Thank you for sharing, also when it's no longer in your collection.

Regards,
Detlef