Borneo, Dayak, ca. late 19th / early 20th century CE. Mandau sword with scabbard and carved stag horn handles, black hair plumes. Grips bound with woven rattan thread, the blades have an edge on one side and are flat. Size: 21.5" L x 3.5" W (54.6 cm x 8.9 cm)

Characteristics for the Mandau is that the blade is shaped convexly on one side and somewhat concavely on the other side. The blade is mostly made of tempered metals, with exquisite vine-works and inlaid brass. The hilt is made from animal horns, such as deer's horns, although some variations with human bones and fragrant wood also have been found. Both the hilt and scabbard are elaborately carved and plumed. Details of carvings vary from tribe to tribe, but mostly depict creatures or, if human bones were used, anthropomorphic deities.

Provenance: Ex-Edward Gerber Estate

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#101904

Heavy use