Old Jimpul Head Hunting Sword, Dayak, Kalimantan

The Jimpul is a member in the family of heavy machete like swords of the Sea Dayak and the Kenyah people of Kalimantan (Borneo). Other members of the family are the Mandau, the Langgai Tinggang  and the Niabor as well as few others. All associated with the head hunting tradition. All share similarities but differ in the blade shapes and dimensions.

The Jimpul is characterized by the heavy and deeply curved blade of flat blade faces and symmetrical wedge shaped cross section. The L shaped handle is similar to other members of the family. .

This Jimpul has a heavy, massive up curving blade, beautifully carved L shaped antler handle bound with plaited rattan and set with hair tufts at the pommel end. Original wood scabbard bound with braided  rattan bands.

Blade 19 inches long. Total length 26 inches. Good condition. Light darkened spots on the blade. The hair tufts are later replacements.