The ‘Sewar’ is an iconic dagger from Sumatra, all the examples have curved blades with different materials used, such as wood, horn, ivory or silver.

Sumatra is known for their excellent craftmanship on silver, as can be seen on this fine example.

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 of carved horn with floral interlacing motifs and the ferrule is of very fine filigree silver.

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.

Condition: Good, the scabbard mouth has a small missing piece, but fits well in the scabbard. Further no damage or repairs, excellent condition silver work.

Dimensions:
Hilt: 7.8cm
Blade: 20.7cm
Scabbard: 23.5cm
Total length: 29.5cm