Sumatran silver clad Sewar

The ‘Sewar’ is, together with the ‘Rencong’, one of the most famous close quarter single edged fighting knifes from Sumatra. Mostly seen in North Sumatra, among the Acehnese and Minangkabau people. The dagger was besides a fighting knife, also a status symbol. The more precious the material, the more important the owner.

This example has a wooden scabbard decorated with thick high quality silver fittings, embossed by hand. The scabbard mouth is made of buffaloo horn and carved with exqcuisite floral motives. The handle is silverclad and has a very fine filigree pommel.

This dagger was most likely worn by an important man of high status, like a chief or military officer.

The dagger dates from the 19th century and has a traditionally forged blade, with single cutting edge and small fuller on the forte.