A massive Ivory-topped hilt of a ceremonial sword called Danganan Maranao

Late 19th -early 20th century
Ivory, Silver gilt rings with filigree mounted on hardwood hiltCustom base in Kamagong by Edwin Esguerra
Length of ivory pommel: 12 inches from tip to tip.Length of entire hilt: 20 inches

PROPERTY FROM THE FLOY QUINTOS COLLECTION

PROVENANCE:Peter F. Heiss (deceased)Floy Quintos



by FLOY QUINTOS “Maratabat” is the Maranao word that encapsulates the ideas of Personal and Clan Honor, Prestige, Character, Integrity. It is a code of personhood that all Maranao aspire to live by even to this day. From the mid- 19th to the early 20th century, the Sultans and Datus ruled the polities around Lake Lanao. The traditional concept of personal honor and social prestige was reflected in the objects that they stored in the Torogan , the residence were they lived with their retainers. This need resulted in the increased patronage of the most skilled Maranao craftsmen and artisans. This “Royal” patronage resulted in a wealth refined functional and prestige objects in wood, ivory, brass, silver, gold and woven and embroidered textiles. All these were brought out and put on full display during the clan gatherings and other social occasions centered in the Torogan. Among these objects would be the silver inlaid brass betel boxes or lotoan, the elegantly-shaped Gadur containers, large trays and agong and embroidered, sequined wall hangings and canopies . The ruler would also proudly display his Kris and other weapons. Among the rarest of these weapons would be the giant Kris called Danganan. Measuring as long as seven feet, these objects were purely for display, and were made up of only the hilt and the scabbard with no blade inside. This huge prestige symbol was placed near where the ruler sat , held by his retainers. The hilt of such a faux- sword was the most impressive part. The pommel was often carved from ivory, horn or hardwood. The distinctive S- shape was said to be influenced by the “kakatua” or Cockatoo bird. The rest of the hilt was covered in brass and silver gilt, sometimes embellished with precious stones. Informants say that it was during the mid 20th century when the practice of displaying only the hilt of the Danganan became a practice among the rulers. The hilt would be held like a scepter, or laid across the lap . This fine example has a massive ivory Cockatoo-style pommel that measures 12 inches from tip to tip. Such an object was surely a source of great pride and social prestige, as well as a showcase of the skills of many artisans whose individual crafts all came together in the creation of this symbol of Maranao power.