Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Lombok, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A sculptural handle that is carved from cow or buffalo horn in the form of a bird. The bird perches on the top of the cylindrical piece that the sword tang inserted into, the bird's head pointing between its legs to preen the chest feathers. The breast and back are detailed with incised with incised feathers, and the wings have spiralized shoulder motifs. This was likely mounted on the end of a tool used for pounding betel nuts (areca nut) for chewing - the betel nut is addictive, yielding similar effects to chewing tobacco. Size: 6" L x 1.5" W (15.2 cm x 3.8 cm); 6.5" H (16.5 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection

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#184897

Chips to the opening rim. Age related striations and minor nicks, othewise intact. Nice patina.