Indonesian golok ? Information wanted

Amuk Murugul · 29th September 2009, 12:31 AM

Hullo everybody,

The item you have there is what is called a Gobang Soenda (gobang=sabel=sabre).
They were worn by Soenda Senapati (military officers) as far back as the 15thC (perhaps even earlier).
Not surprising that it is sometimes referred to as 'Golok Bengkulu' since that area was a busy area of commerce for the Soenda during the 14th-15thC and people not familiar with Soenda weaponry generally refer to any long knife as a 'golok' (although a golok forms only part of a warrior's standard 'wear').

I have attached a photo of similar items.

mvg.

Best,

CharlesS · 29th September 2009, 02:14 PM

I am wondering if the size(small) and awkward way these seem to handle, particularly the ones with the very short, heavily curved blades, makes these more of a status or ceremonial piece.....especially after having read the above thread.

29th September 2009, 12:31 AM	#1
Amuk Murugul Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Kaboejoetan Galoenggoeng Mélben Posts: 473	Hullo everybody, The item you have there is what is called a Gobang Soenda (gobang=sabel=sabre). They were worn by Soenda Senapati (military officers) as far back as the 15thC (perhaps even earlier). Not surprising that it is sometimes referred to as 'Golok Bengkulu' since that area was a busy area of commerce for the Soenda during the 14th-15thC and people not familiar with Soenda weaponry generally refer to any long knife as a 'golok' (although a golok forms only part of a warrior's standard 'wear'). I have attached a photo of similar items. mvg. Best, Attached Images

29th September 2009, 02:14 PM	#2
CharlesS Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Greenville, NC Posts: 1,854	I am wondering if the size(small) and awkward way these seem to handle, particularly the ones with the very short, heavily curved blades, makes these more of a status or ceremonial piece.....especially after having read the above thread.