Stock No..
s2400

$2375.00 USD

Bannerman Officer's sword
Southern China, 19th century
A fine pattern welded blade
Exceptional original condition

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2400

Stock No..
s2398

SOLD

Kurdish Khanjar
Horn hilt
Pattern welded blade

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A Horn hilted Kurdish Khanjar, circa 1900

This old example is of classic and simple means. It has a dark brown horn hilt, simple brass hilt domes, and a classic blade type of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Overall it measures 37cms long. The blade is 23cms long.

The horn hilt is of tapering form, simply formed and displays a well-used and deep patina throughout its surfaces, and that of the dome remaining to the pommel.
It has received two extra re-enforcing pins through the blade. These can be seen just below the space left from the missing dome. It is a known practice to do so. If done during manufacture or later in its working life I do not know.

The shallow curved blade displays a pattern welded surface and differential steels. The form retains the acute raised medial ridge for which these later types are known.

A good honest old warrior from the mountainous regions east of Turkey.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2398

Stock No..
s1567

SOLD

An exceptionally fine Keris
A stunning Bugis Patani blade
A large Perak Perkaka hulu
Kelantan dress, inked Sampir

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A very fine example of a bespoke Malaysian Keris. Perak, 19th century.

Ex personal collection.

To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2320

Stock No..
s2210

SOLD

A good Sulawesi Keris
Large desirable Hulu

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A good near complete Bugis Sulawesi Keris with a large and desirable hulu.

Despite lacking the classic Sulawesi butnut, this keris presents very well.
The large tooth hulu sits within a silver pendokok with applied decorative silver motifs to the outfaces.
As can be seen within the images provided, this has a loss to one side.
Given that there is a small section of hulu that appears to have been chipped away at the junction point of the cup and hulu, it is plausible this this loss is related to conflict, perhaps a projectile impacting the hulu at this point.

The length of the keris is 41cms in its dress. Out it is 40cms and it carries a blade length of 33cms

The blade displays a high nickel content, and overall, the blade would benefit from a traditional clean to highlight the contrasting nature of the metals used.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2210

Stock No..
s2326

SOLD

A very rare Shield
Santali buckler, West Bengal
An early all steel example

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A very rare buckler shield of the Santal people of Jharkland, Western Bengal.

A shield type that little information is known. Very few are found in Museums, and they have only received minor attention in publications. Surviving weapons of the Santali can be found in museums in Oslo, Bergen, Copenhagen, and Leiden, mostly due to the long-standing Missionary expeditions and settlements throughout the regions.

These shield types are quite varied. Many encountered are atypical in that that are concave in construction, although others, both early steel and later brass examples are typical concave designs. In either configuration, each shield carries a spiked protrusion to one side and a fixed ring to the other.

There has been much speculation as to why these unique aspects are found. Some suggest the spike was for fighting, the ring for carrying something, perhaps an axe or some other personal item. It seems to me, from examining both types, the convex type is not very suitable to martial applications where the spike is concerned as it is off centre at an upward angle and little leverage can be had. Perhaps this type served a more ritual or votive purpose, or as seen in the drawing below, part of ritual war dances.

E.R.Watson in his 1907 work, notes the steel Sonthali shields as famous and bullet proof. Unfortunately lack of context does not support reasons behind these writings where these particular design is concerned, however, material culture from missionary settlements does clearly point to a solid shield of the same type, which is flat and approx 1/2 an inch thick. This shield has applied domes and the same spike and curved protrustion.

Below are several images of other shield types.

This example is 21.5cms in diameter. At the longest point, it is 45.5cms long.

A rare and seldom seen piece of Santal history.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2326

Stock No..
s2058

SOLD

Albacete Navaja
97cms open
Exhibition size
Engraved blade
Early example

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A large 19th century Albacete Navaja.

Closed this Navaja measures 51cms long, open it is 97cms long.
The handle is thick rolled brass with simple designs engraved to its surfaces. The brass body is supported by a a very thick and strong back spring that runs for two thirds of its length.

The blade has a 13 tooth ratchet. Its left face has three rudimentary fullers and a line of small Spanish script above and floral decorations below. The right face in plain. The tip of the blade has a long deep clipped tip and false back edge that is 20cms long.

The Navaja is at fault in that the flat of the locking back strap has worn through with use and age but it thick enough at the sides that a competent craftsman could restore this with ease. (Now restored)

A good rare large size.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2058

Stock No..
s2226

$795.00 USD

A Facon with Daga blade
Gaucho knife circa 1900
A rare combination
Hallmarked silver

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A good solid old Gaucho fighting knife with hallmarked silver dress.

An unusual blend of Daga and Facon. Typically, when viewed unsheathed, this would be considered a Facon, however, when drawn, the blade is double edged, in Daga/Dagger style. The Daga form that is usually with a simple disc shaped guard or the rarer "U" shaped guard.

This example measures 38.5cms long in its sheath, out it is 35cms long, and has a blade length of 24cms.

The repousse dress is free from damage and shows a fine floral design to the front and rear. It does lack the timber inners that were likely present, and it is very possible that they may have once been formed for a traditional single edged blade and never placed if this blade was later fitted through breakage or choice.
The decorative belt clip is stamped guaranteed 600.

The double edged blade is very robust with little to no flex. It has a strong point and edges that appear to have been sharpened over time. The block forte is encased in a low-grade silver collar.

A good unique example of a Gaucho knife from the wide untamed frontiers of South America.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2226

Stock No..
s2330

$1295.00 USD

A very rare Thai knife
Rare votive horn pommel
Repousse silver dress
Meed Phra or Meed Mor

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2330

Stock No..
s2192

SOLD

A Chinese dao
Qing sabre
19th century sword

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2320

Stock No..
s2372

SOLD

Pandai Yahya Malela Keris
A unique opportunity
Pattani master, Terengganu Malela

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An exceptionally rare Keris Malela.

A Terengganu Malela keris created by Pandai Yahya.
A good Pandai can it is estimated, make about 1000 blades in his life time. To date I have and have seen about 20 keris that display his trademark qualities, yet a Terengganu Malela is a fist for me and my colleagues.
Several other rare variants are known in private collections, yet what he was most famous for are the incredibly well detailed Saras blades of the north, famous throughout Patani and northern Kelantan.
The individual who commissioned this Malela blade must have had significant influence to obtain such a rare and unique blade from master Yahja.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2320

Stock No..
s2320

$325.00 USD

Javanese sword
Pedang Lurus
Fine blade
Silver dress

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A very nice Javanese Pedang Lurus with a stunning old pamor blade.
I personally feel these sword types are some of the most under rated and underappreciated swords of regions.

Whilst the dress follows a traditional form, most of these types are unique in their design and all carry substantial, dangerous and very attractive blade types, this example is no exception.

Overall, in its sheath, this Lurus measures 57cms long. Out it is 54cms long and has a blade length of 41cms.

The silver dress is decorated in a very subtle repoussé border decoration to the front face and a larger three piece floral decoration to the rear, done in a manner to represent some of the very early known types that had a three piece silver dress over a tooled leather skin that covered the scabbard timbers.
The hilt displays these same larger motifs throughout, with a large central cartouche to each face of the grip.
The cross guard is thick and without flex, a good function form for fighting. The guard is decorated with engraved surfaces. The quillon looks to be a Naga in profile, and it retains its original silver chain guard, although the link connecting to the quillon end is replaced.

The blade is stunning.
Clear old stained pamor surfaces can be seen to both faces. The blade had a robust forte and an extremely sharp and dangerous double-edged tip.

A fine and understated example of the type that retains a quality blade and design elements embedded in earlier historical examples.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2320

Stock No..
s2329

$295.00 USD

A good keris Panjang
Silver dress
Clear laminated blade
Sumatra 19th century

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A good silver dressed Keris Pannjang.

An old blade of typical Aceh appearance and construction.
The blade is dressed in dark timbers and a two piece silver sleeve with repousse floral designs to one face and repeating diamond motifs to the reverse. Each silver face is bordered with a repeating leaf like motif.
As seen in the images, the silver dress has taken a few knocks over the years but remains present and intact.

Both the hulu and sampir have very minor losses as seen within the images. The cast silver pendokok shows a repeated leaf or petal like motif throughout.

The bottom third of the blade is thick and extremely robust and no flex to it. The remaining length tapers to a fine width with good supple flex, ideal for the purpose these headman's weapons were intended, being execution through the Clavicle and in to the heart.

A good honest old Sumatran Keris Panjang, a type that is becoming harder to find.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2329

Stock No..
s2306

$445.00 USD

A rare Perak Keris
A large example
Robust 3 luk blade
A warrior's keris

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A good large Perak keris of broad and rare form.

In its sheath, it is 47.5cms long. Out it is 46.5cms long, with a blade length of 38cms.
With a large bold and classical Perak dress, this is a striking keris in the hand. The large Sampir and hulu are carved from a beautiful burl wood and the stem a luminous wood that appears to be Sena wood. The hulu has very minor losses to the tip of the beak and dorsal fin, and a stable age crack through the burl to the rear. It sits at of fine old bronze pendokok.

The blade type is a most interesting one and do believe it to be of talismanic nature. It is a large 3 luk example, a classic fighter keris in this respect, it broad and very well balanced. Perak Keris are typically without pamor in the traditional sense, rather a more common melding of contrasting steels. In that sense, this example is not much different, but when viewing its surfaces closely, whilst not consistent, the "Tiger Stripe" high contrast pamor is quite deliberate, as it what appears to be rice grain pamor to the tip inner face. Various other markings are present and the faces are quite different to each other.

A good large old fighter from the Perak region of North West Malaysia.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2306

Stock No..
s2397

$995.00 USD

A fine and rare Bugis Malay Keris
Robust 17 luk blade
Lacquered sampir
A very unique large sized Keris

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A very fine, robust, and well preserved Malaysian Keris.

This example is from the southern penisular states, Johor coastal regions, in the Riau Island chain and southern Straits region.

The dress is typical for the region, a sampir style seen throughout Sumatra's east coast, Riau and Johor. The influences of style travelled far and wide along the Maratime Silk Road and it is not often an easy task in identifying keris origins in high traffic maritime areas, relevant to the age of the keris.
At face value the dress appears to be the deirable Kemuning Kettenga wood, but as a colleague pointed out, it looked to be painted in this manner, which is no small feat.
Very close examination shows evidence of a lacquer at the sampir opening for the blade, and it is only from this point that the apprecation for the artists ability to replicate this timber grain can be fully appreciated.

The artist responible for this lacquer had a high level of skills to create this appearance and its seamless application.
Lacquer work is known on keris dress and Keris Hulu. The most notable being the lacquered and gilded Penghulu dress of Jambi, and more recently, applied lacquer techniques revived by the late Nik Rashiddin Nik Hussein.

The blade is exceptional in hand. The high 17 luk count is extremely rare as are the acute luks. The luk form are known, although only seen in a particular subset of keris not commonly found.
By design the blade has a strong Bugis Sulawesi feel to it, suggesting the Pandai had strong Bugis ties within the southern Malaysian coastal settlements or it was bought to the region via maritime trade. It is very thick throughout with a balance point at the first luk which provides a surprisingly agile nature to such a robust blade.

The hulu is very striking with the timbers chosen and it sits within a large gilt bronze pendokok.

A complete original and untouched keris. Complete from hulu to butnut. it carries a rare blade type and luk count and displays some of the rarer aspects of Malaysian keris craft with the applied lacquer to the sampir.

Click here for more information on Stock No. 2397

Stock No..
s2222

SOLD

A fully loaded Bugis Penghulu Keris
15 luk charita pamor blade
containing luk within luk
Burl timber sampir
Broad light fighting blade

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A large and unique Bugis Chieftain keris, Riau/Riau Islands, southern Malaysia.

A fully loaded example of keris art which has a lot packed in to it.

From the large quality hulu with fine grains and deep lustre, to the massive 15 luk Malaysian charita style blade of Penghulu size and presence, dressed within a large burl sampir, extended to the broad stem that is wrapped in black rattan to the base.

Keris of this size and stature are rarely encountered. At face value, the size and presence of this Keris dress, coupled with a very light, broad and robust blade, all point to this keris being made for a warrior chieftain, a Penghulu of substantial influence and fighting ability.

The blade itself is a work of art with 15 luk and 3 luk found within the 15 luk. It is classic Sulawesi luk influence melded with the Malaysian Charita blade types. What further sets it apart is the presence of pamor and an original stain to the blades surface which has been very well cared for throughout its life.

Overall this keris is 45.5cms long in its dress and 45cms out.
The blade measures 38.5cms long and 8.7cms across the width of the gonjo. For its size it is remarkably light in hand and the Charita like form provides a very robust cross section.

An exceptional keris.

Click here for more information on Stock No. 2222

Stock No..
s2375

ON HOLD

A large Luzon sword
Puñal de kriss
Heavy silver dressed fighter

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A large and rare silver dressed Luzon Kris with Serpent eyes within the forte.

This is quite and interesting example of the type. A functional fighting sword with good heft and balance, silver collars over a carved horn grip, a functional brass cross guard and a broad Naga Kris blade with serpent eyes at the forte of one side.

Overall this example is just over 65cms long. Its blade length is 51cms long. The blade has not been cleaned or etched as it commonly found, yet it does show good, laminated sections along the wavy cutting edge and we do expect this to grade up considerably if etched. Our only concern in doing so would be what impact it may have on the darkened recesses on the forte that give the blade the characteristics of serpent eyes.

Speaking with learned colleagues about the presence of snake heads and eyes on Luzon weapons, be it their hilts and pommels, the scabbards or in this rare instance the blade itself, I have been pointed to the legend of the Moon eating serpent called Laho in Tagalog mythology.

Overall this is an excellent example in very good condition.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2375

Stock No..
s1542

$995.00 USD

A Status Knobkerrie
A beautiful chieftain sceptre
Ex. Gallery collection

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s1542

Stock No..
s498

POA

Tibet/Bhutan Helmet
very rare helmet
exceptional condition

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A beautiful well preserved Helmet from far eastern region of the Himilayan mountians, Bhutan.

The helm section stands 16cms tall and 22cms across excluding the peaked visor and oroginal attached neck protectors. The construction of the bowl is thick forged steel, it is heavy and of very good quality.
The crown is mounted with a chiseled and gilded plume holder, the visor shares the same chiseled scrolling designs with full gilding in place, all displaying a wonderful old patina.

The fabric attachnents for neck protection are constructed from a thick inner sandwiched between a woven hemp like material and a waxed silk outer. The outer edges are fully and tightly stitched and also waxed. These pieces also retain 99% of the original leather bindings that secure them to the helmet bowl.

Although lacking a padded inner liner and as sometimes seen, a fabric weather protector outer, this is a very nice and rarely seen combat worthy helmet typically associated with Knights or Royal body guards of the Bhutan kingdom and sometimes seen within other regions of the Tibetan Plateau.

Please note, all items with the Gallery page are examples from my personal collections. These items are not currently offered for sale but are sometimes released to the For Sale page as tastes and items vary.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2309

Stock No..
s2325

$895.00 USD

A fine early Kenyah Mandau
Sarawak region, Baram District
A very heavy inlaid & chiselled blade
Trophy scalp hair adorning scabbard

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An early Kenyah Mandau with some notable features.

In its scabbard this example is 74cms long. Out it is 71cms long, has a blade length of 56cms and is 1cm thick at the base of the spine.

The Mandau displays a very rich deep old-world patina throughout.
The antler hilt has been expertly carved, although, as seen in the photos, aspects have been worn with age. The grip retains most of its original binding which ends in a rare silver collar at the junction with the blade. Silver adornment are a rare thing on these sword types.

The blade is for serious work, it is thick, robust, and very efficiently balanced. The spine does show its layered surfaces and several simple engraving too.
The Convex blade face displays classic engraved motifs and alternating inlaid panels and it retains a keen cutting edge. The reverse displays engravings at the forte and seldom seen inlay at the upper end of the tip, as seen in the photos provided.

Its scabbard shows a lot of age and remains in healthy condition. It is bound with both rattan and metal strapping.
Both ends are deeply carved with the same symbols and motifs seen on the hilt. It retains the bark scabbard for the Pisau raut, but this is not present with the Mandau.
The standout features of this scabbard are a combination of the fine carvings, but also that it retains an old woven suspension baldric and large antler button and within the various bindings, three head-hunter trophy hair, taken from the heads of slain enemies. The Kenyah shields are famous for this practice of hair decoration, as noted within Hose and McDougall's The Pagan Tribes of Borneo, 1912.
These hair pieces are bound in both fabric and rattan, and are placed on bother outer faces of the scabbard and one between the secondary bark scabbard and the Mandau's inner scabbard face.

A remarkably well preserved primal weapon and accruements, one that invoked fear in to all who encountered it.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2325

Stock No..
s2315

$595.00 USD

An unusual Terrs Buckler
Oman Zanzibar shield
Polymer construction
Very robust shield

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A most unusual Terrs buckler that we know very little about.

These shield/buckler types are known throughout the horn of Africa, Zanzibar and Oman. They are the famous Terrs buckler, made from Hippopotamus hide and spun in to these extremely robust and practical fighting shield.

This example of of perfect size and form, being 23.5cms in diameter and 14cms tall.

What separates this from the normal types found, is that it is spun from a single block of polymer and the handle is cast from the same material.
One might expect such material to be of lesser practical quality but it is not. This is as equally thick, robust, practical and capable. to our eyes, made by the same craftsmen, the appearance and form is remarkable.

This anomaly leads us to questions that we just cannot answer but do have several proposals, each worthy of further research.
This does not appear to be modern work at all.
All aspects of the bronze casting of the star medallions through to shields perfect form, point to being of the period and likely early 20th century. With the developments in technologies, there followed further European trade routes and interactions, newer industrial materials became available globally.
Questions that arise are, was it intended for a great exposition? Was is intended as a political gift, was it intended to demonstrate the practical nature of such materials in a mission to provide new innovations abroad?
Perhaps it came through European competition trade from Ethiopia in to African trade routes or direct to Oman through British relationships during the de facto protectorate from 1872-1920, which makes much more sense.

A visually stunning example with a lot of interesting history to research.

Ex. Unitied Kingdom Collection.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2315

Stock No..
s2286

$1095.00 USD

A fine Madu shield, India 19th century
Black Buck horns with iron spear tips
Fakir's horns, steel buckler

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A rare fighting shield from India, Madu.

This pair of iron tipped fighting horns measure 84cms from tip to tip. The iron buckler face measures moderately larger than most at 22cms across its face.

The black buck horns are tipped with iron spikes which are 11cms long, including the socket and each are capped with iron at the base.
The horns are pinned together with long iron spike which also attach the buckler face to the horn. Without this iron buckler face, the form is known as Fakir's horns, with the shield, a Madu.

The shield face is decorated with bronze rosettes to the centre and an applied bronze edge.

A well preserved and desirable fighting shield that provided the warrior with a very efficient offensive and defensive option in his non sword hard.

Very good condition throughout.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2286

Stock No..
s2240

$2495.00 USD

Sikh fighting sword
A very fine example
Rare script to pommel
A LONG warriors sword
Sirohi district headman sword

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A very fine and large named Rajput fighting sword from the Sirohi district of Western Rajasthan.

This very long fighting sword measures 107.5cms long in its scabbard, just under 107cms long out, with a blade length 94cms long.

The large Rajput type hilt remains in near pristine condition.
It is thickly embossed with silver overlay of varying depth to all surfaces including the quillon ends and underside of the disc pommel.
Amidst these flower and vine motifs sits a central panel on the inside of the pommel that contains text that has been partially translated.
These sought-after swords with such text, usually contain one of two messages, being either religious invocations to Hindu gods and goddesses or names and localities of regional headmen or aristocrats. It is with grateful acknowledgement that what has been translated points to the later.
Within the text both Sirohi and Sri Jagmal Ji have been translated. There is some mystery remaining with what hasn't been translated, but at face value, this points to a local leader bearing the same name as the famous 16th century prince Jagmal Singh and that he was the headman of the Sirohi region in Western Rajasthan. There is however another alternative to the tradition of religious or leader attributions, that is that the sword presented is also known as a "Sirohi" and that the text is one of devotion to Jagmal Singh who became the co-ruler of Sirohi in 1581.
Regardless of what further details may be found in the translation, this example is one of the better examples of the type we have had and seen over the years.
Other experts in the area of Indian arms and armour have noted that they have only seen approx 10 if these types of swords with these texts.

The long and very capable fighting blade carries the typical Indian block forte ricasso. The form is of a backsword or horseman sword, being a long single edged type with a triangular distal taper towards the cutting edge. Whilst perfectly suitable for horseback, this sword plays particularly well in the hand when on foot too. Its balance is perfect in the hand, offering a light weight feel with a long reach, and its long-sharpened back edge perfect for facilitating thrusts. Each face of the blade has a single round stamp near the tip of the langet, whist the left face has two smaller stamps in the upper fuller. It is interesting to note too, between these two stamps on the left face, it is the point of balance for the sword.

The scabbard is of the period and remains in exceptional condition throughout, with only very minor wear in come to be expected places such as the throat and drag.
the velvet covering has flecks of yellow throughout and is bound along the seams with bullion thread.

A remarkable fighting sword that has obviously been treasured for many generations.
Ex European Collection.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2240

Stock No..
s2059

$995.00 USD

A very fine Knife
Gaucho Presentation
Brazil, 19th century
Exceptional features

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A very fine and very rare exhibition/presentation grade Brazilian Gaucho knife. European export for the South American market.

This outstanding knife measures 33cms long in its sheath, is 31cms overall and has a blade length of 20cms inclusive of the bolster.

This is one of those cutler's exhibition grade examples that encompasses so many fine aspects of the knife making craft.
Upon insight gained from very knowledgeable published collectors, it is likely Belgium made for the export market to South America, however, through further discussion, given the specific blade type, there could also be Italian influence as was often also found within Gaucho knives.

The extremely decorative hilt is gold plated and set with garnets. All surfaces are so very well and deeply engraved and the level of crispness and detail is exceptional.
The clip point bowie style blade retains a very sharp and original non sharpened edge. Its block forte is pierced and engraved to reveal a rampant winged mythological beast, possibly a Griffin. The spine at the forte is engraved, whilst the rest of the spine towards the clipped tip is file finished in classical Spanish style. The blade surfaces remain in a bright full mirror polish with only minor age related wear.

The sheath is an exceptional work of art. Like the hilt, the level of detail is simply outstanding. The outer face is covered in deep engraved relief work displaying floral motifs and tendrils whilst the reverse displays a large pierced central cartouche to which a winged angel is flying within. The large belt clip is also pierced and engraved in deep relief

An exceptional and unique example of a very high quality exhibition grade Brazilian Gaucho knife that displays masterful work throughout.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2059

Stock No..
s2312

$325.00 USD

Sikin Panjang
Sumatra, 19th century
Hulu Peusangan
Pattern welded blade

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A good old Sikin Panjang with a fine Hulu Peusangan.

In its scabbard, this example measures 70.5cms long. Out it is 66.5cms and has a blade length of 53cms including the bolster.

The sword has a very well carved Hulu Peusangan hilt that has survived in very good condition, free from major cracks which affect these sword types so often.

The blade is robust and shows hints of the well-known pattern welding seen on the type, and has a stem ring of nine leaves.

The scabbard is a simple example. Its timbers do not carry inked motifs and they are bound in a white metal strapping. the traditional carved throat piece, likely timber on this example, it is not present.

Overall a good fighting sword from Sumatra that would grade up well.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2312

Stock No..
s2147

$1495.00 USD

Very rare Hudiedao
Guaredless Wing Chun sized examples
Complete with sheath
Sensational fighting swords

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2147

Stock No..
s2383

$1195.00 USD

A very rare Chinese Kuomintang dagger
A fine KMT Officers dagger

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2383

Stock No..
s2369

$725.00 USD

Suma, Greek pistol ramrod
A fine complete example

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2368

Stock No..
s2305

$2795.00 USD

A oversized Ayda Katti
A large status example of the type
Coorg weapon, 18th century
Gold "OM" plug
Refer to the Ex Robert Hales example

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An oversized Coorg war knife, Ayda Katti.

Proportionally, this example is considerably larger than the more common black horn hilted examples typically seen.
I suspect, given its size, materials and presence of the gold plug to the right face of the blade, that this example belonged to a man of status within the community.

In a straight line, tip to tip, this Ayda Katti measures 55.5cms long. The blade is 42cms to the centre of the large ivory grip. The grip itself is 12cms long, 4.5cms wide and 3.5cms thick. The pommel is 6cms x 12.5cms with the tang peened over a decorative rose gold fitting.

Historically these weapons were the most feared weapons from the Coorg district, and it is hard to get the full appreciation of just how devastating these weapons are unless handled. It is little wonder that after several confrontations with the British, that the local British administration confiscated all arms, seizing 17,295 weapons and dumping them at sea in the early 19th century, which also explains why these types are seldom seen in the market.

Page 189, figure 453 of Robert Hales Islamic Arms and Armour shows an example certainly by the hand of the same maker.

A very rare Coorg sword that would grade up if desired.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2305

Stock No..
s2323

$225.00 USD

Baluchistann buckler
19th century shield

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A rare Baluchistan buckler.

This iron and brass bound hide Sipar or Buckler measures 26cms across. It's outer face is decorated with 4 large central bosses in Indian Dhal style and further decorated but applied brass fittings that have tooled surfaces.

The reverse retains its original leather knuckle pad, four iron suspension rings, and two leather straps which attached to these rings.
The inner hide lining of the shield has deteriorated with age.

A seldom seen shield that would grade up if desired.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2323

Stock No..
s2322

$275.00 USD

A very fine Somali buckler
Hand carved and pigmented

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A good Somali shield with fine motifs.

This shield type is becoming much harder to find in any condition. It measures 34.5cms across its tooled hide face.

The rear face of this example displays black and red inked motifs around the raised central handle, with its handle retaining worn but near complete fabrics wrapping.

An example that is complete and remains in good condition for its age.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2322

Stock No..
s2314

$595.00 USD

A very fine Shield
Uganda, 19th/20th century

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A very fine example of a pigmented rattan woven shield, Ganda people, circa 1900.

This very fine example measures 70.5cms tall and 30.5cms wide.

These rarer shield types are usually only seen with a single raised centre lobe. Examples of these types are seen in private collection and museum collections such as the Met Museum, Accession Number: 1982.485.16.
What is rarely seen are these examples such as of a rarer sub type with dual protrusions. It is not known as to why a few were chosen to be made with dual protrusions or if they served a particular purpose.

What these shield types are known for are the very fine pigmented rattan weavings.
As can be seen from the detailed photographs provided, this example displays all those fine qualities. The use of alternating horizontal and vertical is visually striking and makes for a robust and practical defence if it was ever required. The edge of the shield is bound in a fur covered hide that has been expertly stitched to the outer edge with dark pigmented rattan.

The reverse is no less attractive. It is covered in the same alternating bindings with the long central handle bound in chequered style weaving.

A very rare and stunning shield from late 19th/early 20th century Uganda.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2314

Stock No..
s915

$445.00 USD

A stunning African sword
Cameroon Grasslands
Tikar, Bamum, Bamileke
A very fine complete example

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A very fine African sword, Cameroon, rare complete condition.

The African sword stands 68cms tall in the sheath.
The sheath stands 52cms tall and 17cms wide. At the widest points, across the suspension loops the width is 41cms.
A rarity to find in such complete condition, this sword retains all its original features with the exception of a few small cowries and the suspension baldric.
The sword within measures just over 60cms tall and just under 10cms across the flared tip. The hilt is carved timber with a large fluted bulbous pommel. The base is bound with heavy gauge copper wire.
The entire patina is a pleasing dry, stable and untouched patina.

An exceptional piece of African artwork, complete and retains all of the native Cameroon fabrics and design elements.

Click here to request Stock No. s915

Stock No..
s2229

$3995.00 USD

A very rare Khanjar
17th-18th century Wootz blade
19th century dress
Fine & thick Niello silver
A stunning Turkish dagger
Armenian craftsmanship, Van region

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A very fine example of an early Wootz Kurdish/Turkish Khanjar in 19th century dress.

Measuring 38cms long in its sheath, 35.5cms out and carrying a fine wootz blade that is just over 20cms long, this fine example of a rare knife type remains in excellent condition throughout.

The hilt displays a deep and warm rich glossy patina throughout, which is both very comfortable in hand and pleasing to the eye.

Its blade form is of a known type, typically noted as 18th century, likely crafted in the greater Mosul region of the Middle East.

The sheath is very finely crafted in thick silver which has been decorated in relief and filled with Niello. The style and designs of this silver and Niello work point to Armenian makers, who are famous for such works in the area of Van.

Within the decorative motifs of the Niello surface, to the throat section, a large panoply of arms behind large Turkish flags and a Tughra atop.
If able to identify the Tughra, this would better point to a specific manufacture date of this fine workmanship.
To the lower section of the sheath, or drag, there is a large cliff face scene. Atop sits several buildings, including a Minaret, a flagpole with flag central to the image. Below, simple script reading "Van" in Armenian.

The image of this cliff top fortress could have been one of the many fortresses throughout Turkey/Turkiye, but to our eye and with grateful research insights, given the massive scale of the cliff presented in the image and the perspective used, we believe this is representative of the Castle of Van, hence the makers note beneath the image.
Although not providing a complete panoramic view within the Niello, when viewing modern photos of Castle Van, the perspective of the artwork portrays the minaret, building locations and a representation of the gateway leading in to the castle complex and the contrast from cliff face to green fertile fields with water ways.

A very fine and unique example of a very rare important Khanjar.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2229

Stock No..
s2321

$375.00 USD

A Lombok Parang
Fine carving
Suasa and silver dress
Thick blade

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A good complete example of the classic Lombok Parang.

A massively underappreciated and often mis-identified weapon, the Lombok Parang.
This example is remains in good condition overall. It is 59cms long in its scabbard, 57.5cms out and has a blade length of 43cms.
The uniquely carved "cockatoo" pommel is of a rarely seen form. Overall, the profile is of the traditional form, however, the detail within is most unusual for the type, perhaps unique to a specific region within the island or simply the craftsman’s trademark.
The thick heavy blade shows nice laminated pamor patterning to the surfaces and spine and it remains in very good condition for its age.
The hilt is dressed in both silver and Suasa, whilst the scabbard is dressed solely in silver sheet.

A nice old fighting sword from the island of Lombok, a type which is becoming harder to find in any condition.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2321

Stock No..
s2332, 2333, 2334

$3995.00 USD

A rare trio of Amazon clubs
Kayapo people
Xingu river, Amazon Basin

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A fine rare trio of quality Mebêngôkre clubs from the Amazon Basin, circa 1900.

These clubs and others not displayed within the For Sale stock listed, they are each available for sale individually. Please reach out via email of you have interest.

The largest of these clubs’ measures 122.5cms long, whilst the smallest pole club is 83cms long. The Other large pole club is 105cms long and has an impressive weight and balance.

Each club has retained its original basket work vegetable fibre wrappings and cordage.
The largest displays a deep glossy patina to the timber surfaces, whilst the two pole clubs do show an obvious glossy age patina, due to their carved surfaces, it is obvious from closer inspection.
All clubs are free from cracks, although the larger one has very minor edge loss to the upper point before it narrows and also on the tip.

Seldom seen for sale, these are a striking trio that display extremely well.

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2332/33/34

Stock No..
s2304

$895.00 USD

Opi, Wetar / Kisar Islands
A very rare Timor sword
East Timor

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2304

Stock No..
s2164

$995.00 USD

Laos, Kaseng region
A very rare shield type

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To be updated shortly

Click here to request Stock No. s2164

Stock No..
s2310

$495.00 USD

Chinese sabre
Engraved blade
Ex armoury, Left Division
Mid 19th century

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2310

Stock No..
s2328

$1895.00 USD

Afghanistan Choora
Named and dated
Wootz blade with polished forte
An ultra rare named Choora

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2328

Stock No..
s2194

$1295.00 USD

A fine Tboli Kampilan
Complete with original scabbard
A seldom seem weapon

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2194

Stock No..
s2293

$495.00 USD

A good rare Shield
Ex personal Collection
Bontoc Igorot, Luzon Philippines
mid to late 19th century

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A good old rare shield of typical Igorot form, displaying a deep old smokey patina. Ex personal collection.

To be updated shortly

Click here to request Stock No. s2293

Stock No..
s2311

SOLD

Dadao, war sword.
China Republican period
Presentation grade example
Engraved dragon with inlaid eye

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2312

Stock No..
s2173

SOLD

A large and rare Thai sword
Silver repousse status sword
A very length sword

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2173

Stock No..
s2216

SOLD

Penghulu Keris
Rare painted dress
Broad thick blade
Sumatra 19th century

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2216

Stock No..
s2168

SOLD

Old Kedah Keris

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2168

Stock No..
s2187

SOLD

A stunning high end Koumaya
Moroccan, late 19th century
Horn hilt, thick silver dress
Gold embellished silver and blade
Custom Signed Thiers blade

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Ex personal collection.

To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2187

Stock No..
s1823

SOLD

A very rare Chinese sabre
Auspicous markings
Raised yelman
very rare fittings
An early sword type
Late Ming, very early Qing

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Ex personal collection.

To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s1823

Stock No..
s2157

SOLD

A fine Chinese jian
Presentation sword

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To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2157

Stock No..
s2302

SOLD

A very rare Samrit sword
Cambodia, likely late 18th century
A well balance fighting sword
Robust blade, engraved spine

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A good rare Cambodian sword with full Samrit hilt.

To be updated shortly

Click here for more information on Stock No. s2302