Fine Suduk Maru sword

The ‘Pedang Lurus’, or straight sword, is a distinctive weapon originating from Java, Indonesia. It was commonly worn by soldiers and guards from the 17th to the 19th century. This short, straight sword shares similarities with a hunting dagger and typically measures no more than seventy centimeters in length. While the term ‘Pedang Lurus’ is often used to describe these silver-clad swords, the correct designation for this style, with its ancient blade design, is ‘Pedang Suduk Maru’. These swords vary in blade shape and size, often featuring traditional forged blades, but foreign blades were also encountered, particularly during the reign of the Dutch East India Company.

Our example:

This piece is particularly unique, featuring a Suduk Maru style blade that dates back to the early 17th century. The craftsmanship shows clear influences from Palembang, Sumatra, and Java. The hilt is crafted from wood and is shaped to resemble a stylized flower bud, a design often seen in Palembang. The scabbard consists of two wooden slabs secured by large silver fittings, which display a strong European influence.

The blade is remarkable for its beautiful layered pamor structure and features double fullers on each side. A later addition to the blade includes Javanese script.