A very fine Javanese court ”Parang”.

The wooden hilt in Madurese style with richly engraved motives, encased on it’s back and pommel by a silver cover inscripted with the ”Baduh” Magic square symbol. The European shaped guard is connected to the top of the hilt with a silver chain. The black laqcuered wooden sheath is covered with low grade silver engraved mounts. The general outlines have many resemblences with the Dutch VOC (East India Company) cutlass. The S-shaped guard is made of solid silver and is significantly harder and stronger than regular guards. The front side of the guard is very nicely engraved with symmetrical floral motives. These quality swords were used by high ranked court guards and dignitaries.

The blade has a semi-circle curved ”Batu Lapak” symbol on the forte which indicates Royal Pamor that brings wealth. The blade has an almost straight back ending concave with a single cutting edge and beautifull deep forging lines.

This example was made in the 19th century on the island Java and shows excellent silver work and finely Madurese style carving on the handle with guirlandes and a large presence of curls.

Condition: Excellent, the handle has a nice patina and so has the blade. The silver is cleaned, but not highly polished. The black laquer on the scabbard seems to be re-done long ago.
The handle has some small glue remains where it connects to the guard, probably an old restauration.

Dimensions:
Hilt: 14cm
Blade: 40.4cm
Blade thickness: 6mm
Scabbard: 46.3cm
Total length: 57.5cm

Conclusion:

A rare sword of royal quality and most likely used in the first half of the 19th century hence the Dutch inspired military swords worn later as seen on photo’s dating from the 1860’s. Most likely worn by a Sultan’s bodyguard or other court dignitary. Excellent craftmanship on a desireable sword.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copyright by Peter Andeweg – 2020