The pedang is commonly seen in most parts of Indonesia, excluding Borneo. The curved blade is locally called ‘Pedang Bentok’ which means ‘curved sword’. As mentioned, they are often attributed to Sumatra or Lombok. This example has some interesting features which can explain a mixture of both.
The hilt:
Carved of wood, a stylistically version of the so-called ‘Hulu Iku Ite’ a form which is mainly found in the Aceh region of Sumatra, but stylistically also on ‘Penai’ swords of the Toraja in Celebes. The handle is made of fine repousse silver with complicated floral designs and a smooth silver ferrule.

The blade:
A well made Lombok style blade with long forte and double fuller. A fine smooth pamor forging construction which is well visible. The sharp cutting edge starts where the forte ends and runs down towards the tip.

The scabbard:
Exquisitely made, in style of the silver workshops in Yogya, who had their high tides during the early 20th century. The construction and quality of this scabbard points us to this period, circa 1900-1920. A comparable quality of silver was also made in Riau, Sumatra. The scabbard consists of two wooden sheets entirely covered with repousse silver. Fitting perfectly to the blade.

Condition: Excellent condition, well visible blade with a fine pamor motif. Good condition silver parts on scabbard and hilt.

Dimensions:
Hilt: 17cm
Blade: 62cm
Blade spine thickness: 8mm
Scabbard: 65.5cm
Total length: 82cm

Sources: A. Zonneveld’s ‘Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago’ p.102