Rare Sword from Timor - Indonesia

Swords from Timor islands in Indonesia vary greatly. Van Zonneveld group them into five groups by the hilt shape (see below). Group a, including the sword discussed below is characterized by a triangle shaped horn hilt with flat sides, engraved with a geometrical design. In many cases the hilt fixed with hair tufts. Blades shapes are straight or slightly curved.

The Timor sword offered here has a straight solid blade forged from laminated steel with ridged spine, widening toward the tip. The handle is triangle of classical form finely engraved and set with bone plates on the upper and lower faces (later addition). The scabbard is wood sides secured with lines of metal rivets and the upper part is bound with rattan strips.

Blade 18 ½ inches (47 cm). Total length 29 inches (74 cm). Very good condition. Rare and authentic sword, early 20 C.  

See: Albert G. Van Zonneveld “Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago” Pages 137-139