Important May 8th Collection of Asian Arms, Part I

Important May 8th Collection of Asian Arms, Part I

Saturday, May 8, 2021  |  10:00 AM Central
Auction closed.
Important May 8th Collection of Asian Arms, Part I

Important May 8th Collection of Asian Arms, Part I

Saturday, May 8, 2021  |  10:00 AM Central
Auction closed.
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A Prominent, Fresh to Market Collection of Antique Asian Arms. This Auction will include part I of the entire David Schmiedt Collection. We are very humbled and excited to facilitate the sale of such an impressive estate. Mr. Schmiedt, internationally known, prominent collector, out of California have been actively and passionately gathering priceless artifacts from All Over the World for period over 30+ years . The collection includes some exceptionally rare and fine quality examples of Indonesian and Philippine Weaponry Art with mega-rare Damascus steel patterned blades and exquisite mounts, almost never encountered on the market. Some Fantastic Kris, Keris, Barong, Kampilan, Mandau, Balato & Parang Jimpul examples that will Blow any Collector's Mind ! Also a number of High Quality Ottoman and Indo-Persian sabers with fine Wootz blades, as well as some rare examples of Large Tribal Shields and Armor, Spears, Clubs, Dayak Headhunter's Skull displays & Fantastic carved wood Keris-holder statues. This phenomenal sale is a Once in a Lifetime opportunity to put together a Superb... Show more
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Rare 19th C. Philippine Igorot Tribe BONTOC Shield, Mountain Province, Philippines.

Lot # 252 (Sale Order: 251 of 298)      

A distinct form of a Philippine shieldattributed to the Bontoc people of the northernPhilippines and now the Mountain region. Theshortened and flattened points of the shi...moreeld, two onone side and three on the other, delineate this stylefrom the more well-known Igorot shield which haslonger and sharp points. Shields of this type areassociated with headhunting and would be carriedalongside the classic Bontoc axe, which were usedto cut the heads off of fallen enemies. Othershields of this type can be seen in the plates takenof Philippine arms captured during the SpanishAmerican war and the Philippine Insurrection andkept at the Smithsonian Institution.The shield in the Schmiedt Collection of a solidpiece of carved wood, but with some damage tothe sides. The 'damaged' sides of the shield are agood sign of authentic tribal use as during wartime(before and/or after) all warriors would celebrateand while walking in a row tap with a stick on thesides of their shield. These shields were thereforealso sometimes referred to as gaklaba i.e. soundof tapping on the shields now at the National Gallery of Australia.Other early images of these shields were published in an ethnographic study of the Bontoc.Total size: 38" x 16"Comparable auction sales:https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/16146/lot/4010/https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/16146/lot/4011/https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/21588/lot/14/References:1. Krieger, H. (1926) The Collection of Primitive Weapons and Armor of the PhilippineIslands in the United States National Museum. Smithsonian Institution; United StatesNational Museum, Bulletin 1372. Jenks, A.E. (1904) The Bontoc Igorot. Manila. Dept. of InteriorDetailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Very Large 19th-early 20th C. African Masai Tribe Shield (Sword), Western Kenya

Lot # 253 (Sale Order: 252 of 298)      

This shield is likely of the Maasai people of Western Kenya and NorthernTanzania. The pastoralist Maasai from the grasslands of southern Kenya and northern Tanzaniaused t...morehese shields in warfare, hunting, and rites of passage. A hide is sewn onto a wooden frameand becomes a convex elliptical canvas onto which an artist traced polychrome geometricpatterns. The motifs of each shield identified the owner's position within a complex lineagesystem. These symbolic motifs, called sirata, have fallen into disuse. The red and black dyes,traditionally obtained by mixing different types of clays and ashes, were the prerogative ofaccomplished individuals. The colors for the natural dyes were made from local materials: red bymixing earth with blood and fruit sap, white from local clays, and black from the skins of burntgourds. It has a handle attached across the center at the back which is often covered with leather.Each shield is uniquely decorated with patterns made from natural and commercial dyes. Youngwarriors were allowed to use black, grey and white, while red dye was reserved for moreexperienced warriors.This shield is an authentic example, not made for tourists and likely of the late 19th to early 20thcenturies. The black and red pigment is now slightly lost in places while the shield has warpedover time. It retains its carrying handle on the underside and is otherwise in good condition withno losses to the hide.Provenance - Schmiedt Collection.Total size : 38" x 29 1/2"Comparable auction sale:https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/24946/lot/83/https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/24946/lot/81/References:1. Stone, G. C. (1934). A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration, and Use of Arms andArmor in All Countries and in All Times. Mineola NY: Dover Publications.2. Spring, Christopher (1993). African arms and armour. British Museum Press.3. Paschke, D. and Zirngibl, M. (1992) Afrikanische Schilde / African Shields. PanterraPress.4. Benitez-Johannot, P. and Barbier, J-P (2000) Shields: Africa, Southeast Asia andOceania, Prestel.Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Rare Late 19th-early 20th C. Indonesian Iban or Kenyah Dayak Headhunter's KLIAU Wooden Shield.

Lot # 254 (Sale Order: 253 of 298)      

A rare form of an Indonesian shield from the Iban or Kenyah Dayak people, thisshield is called a kliau and is of classic form. This distinctly unpainted and unmarked exam...moreple islikely of considerable age. The shield is carved from a single piece of timber, banded with wovencane to stop it being split longitudinally from sword blows. The wood has developed a goldenbrown colour and patina, with subtle decoration to areas, grooved and branded geometric motifsto the front cane and edges, and the grip.Warfare played a central role in the art and culture of the Dayak peoples of Borneo. Theseshields were used in hand to hand combat to protect against the use of metal spears and thefeared Mandau parang ihlang. In other situations, the attackers would creep into the village atnight and set alight the huts that were built on poles to force the occupants out. The warriorswould hold the shields above their heads to protect themselves from objects dispatched fromabove, such as poison blow darts, boiling water, rocks, or any other heavy object. The shieldswere also used as ceremonial dance accessories.In addition to hereditary rank, prowess in warfare and success in taking enemy heads were theprimary means for a man to achieve social prominence. The larger kliau shields also providedthe bearer supernatural protection and many shields were decorated with locks of human hairobtained from slain enemies. The presence of hair on a shield indicated that the owner was an accomplished warrior.Provenance - Schmiedt Collection.Total size : 54" x 13" Comparable auction sales:https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/16979/lot/5001/https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/21588/lot/21/https://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2018/coll-z-pf1848/lot.38.htmlReferences:1. Van Zonneveld, A.G. (2001). Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago.Leiden: Art Books2. Evans, B. (ed.) (2019). War Art & Ritual. Shields from the Pacific.Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Early 20th C. Horn of Africa Somali Gaschan Shield

Lot # 255 (Sale Order: 254 of 298)      

African cultures developed the widest and disparate groups of shield forms. From classic roundexamples to more complex profiles, the shield always played an important rol...moree in the defensivearmament of African warriors. Shields from east Africa and the horn of African in particulargenerally had a circular shape. Similar shields of smaller dimensions and with a less pronouncedcentral button were carried by Somali warriors and called gaschan. Examples in the British Museum have a similar style of decoration and form as the example in the Schmiedt collection. These Somali shields were often smaller than those from neighboring Ethiopia, though they were created in a similar way. The first stage was to cut out a piece of untreated hide, then toplace it over a shaped wooden mold sunk firmly in the ground. Hair would be scraped off at thisstage from the hide, and the hide allowed to dry. Then several coats of oil would be applied overa period of days, causing the hide to swell, while at the same time being beaten with a mallet toachieve a tough and virtually impenetrable surface.The shield maker would then use a number of special hammers to apply embossed markings tothe supple surface before allowing the hide to dry out completely. Despite their small size,Somali shields are extremely strong and may be looked upon almost as offensive rather thandefensive weapons. They had a very large hand grip which would allow the owner to push theshield up his arm when not in combat.The significance of shields such as this example extended far beyond their purely functionalcapabilities. Possessing a fine, perfectly round and bleached white shield was an indication of aman's standing in society. Some shields also have intricate designs, painted in henna, beneath thegrip on the reverse side. These were known as marriage shields and formed part of the dowrygiven by the brides father to his son-in-law. Similar shields were used in the Arabian Peninsula,and there is evidence to suggest they were made in Somalia for export, particularly to Oman.Further west in Ethiopia, the Afar/Danakil group from the Issa tribe, likely from the region nowthe country of Djibouti carried a similar shield alongside the traditional gile dagger or shortsword (see this catalog nos. 31 and 65), and these were formed of hardened leather with the handstraps composed of similar hardened leather. In Paschke and Zirngibl (1992), a picture of anAfar warrior from the period of 1901 is shown with a similar shield being carried alongside agile and a spear.Provinance - Schmiedt Collection.Diameter: 12"References:1. Stone, G. C. (1934). A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration, and Use of Arms andArmor in All Countries and in All Times. Mineola NY: Dover Publications.2. Spring, Christopher (1993). African arms and armour. British Museum Press.3. Paschke, D. and Zirngibl, M. (1992) Afrikanische Schilde / African Shields. PanterraPress.Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Rare 19th - early 20th C. Indonesian Nias BALATO Sword (telugu, balatu sebua) ~ Animal Teeth & Shell

Lot # 256 (Sale Order: 255 of 298)      

A rare sword of the Nias islands near Sumatra, this sword is called a balato and is of the classic balato form but with the distinctive carved hilt in the form of a drago...morenhead called a lasara. This atypical balato has a form that follows certain documented interpretations of the traditional lasara (dragon head) hilt and which can be seen illustrated in Modigliani (1890) and Fischer (1909). This particularly long blade balato would be a considered a traditional headhunters sword while the shorter examples are considered a knife for domestic usage. The blade likely not laminated and with a downswept and inward sharpened edge. The hilt of this example with a carved handle in the form called a niobawa bae representing the head of a monkey with a bekhu zocha on its back. The locked teeth of the spirit may it appear aggressive and this form of hilt associated with a monkey allegedly provides the warrior with speed in combat (Van Zonneveld 2001). Other forms of hilts have lasara hilts that are considered representations of a lasara, which has been identified alternately as a lawalo bird (Horner 1849); nibawa lawalo, an animal whose function is to increase the strength of the sabres owner (Schrider 1917); boars head (Modigliani 1890); a Chinese dragon; and others as a makara, a sea dragon from Hindu-Javanese mythology and found throughout S.E. Asia However, the hilts were supposed to have a protective function for the owner of the sabre. Alongside the protection offered by the lasara and the niobawa bae moneky figure these hilts feature the bechu zocha, a spirit who hunts and feeds on men's shadows, just as men feed on pigs. By sitting astride the pommel and biting the boar's head, he takes on the role of a man. This image can be regarded as a talisman working against the misfortunes that the bechu zocha spirit would ordinarily bring (Brenner-Felsach 1998). The scabbard is of two pieces of wood secured with strips of rattan. This example instead of the talismanic basket has talismans and amulets hanging along the upper portion of the scabbard including shells and animal teeth, which all appear to be secured using natural thread, an indication of an earlier dating. The blade now with pitting from age. Balato are difficult to date accurately, but considering the style of carving of the hilt, the distinct form of amulet charm attachment, and the use of natural fibers, this example likely dates to the late 19th century to early 20th century.Provenance - Schmiedt Collection.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : Blade Length : Comparable auction sales:1. https://www.christies.com/lotfinder/lot_details/?intobjectid=50058342. https://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2014/collection-murray-frum-oceanie-pf1438/lot.45.html3. https://www.sothebys.com/es/auctions/ecatalogue/2012/art-dafrique-et-docanie-pf1218/lot.32.html4. https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/24872/lot/72/5. https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/20973/lot/3230/References:1. Van Zonneveld, A.G. (2001) Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago. Leiden: Art Books2. Viaro, M. A. (2001). Ceremonial sabres of nias headhunters in indonesia. Arts Et Cultures, 3, 150-171.3. Fischer, H.W. (1909) Katalog des ethnographischen Reichsmuseums- Die Inseln ringsum Sumatra, (vol. 4, Leiden)4. Modigiliani, E. (1890) Un viaggio a Nias.5. Brenner-Felsach, Joachim Freiherr von. Eine Reise nach Nias, die Indonesienexpedition 1887, edited by Reinhold Mittersakschmller, 171-75. Vienna: 19986. Schroder, E. E.W. S. Nias: Ethnographische, geographische en historische Aanteekeningen en Studin. 2 vols. Leiden: Brill, 1917.7. Horner, Johann Jakob. Batoe-Eilanden, ten Westen van Sumatra gelegen. In Tijdschrift voor Neerlanas Indie. Batavia, 1840.Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Very Impressive Early 20th C. African OROMO Shield, South Central Ethiopian

Lot # 257 (Sale Order: 256 of 298)      

This striking Ethiopian Shield is from the Oromo tribe. Extremely thick hide is decorated with dimpled impressions and extreme patination. This shield form has always dra...morewnthe attention of art and ethnic arms collectors as a result of the deep sculptural form.This style has been attributed to various sub-tribes of Ethiopia's larger ethnic groups, includingthe Oromo, the Sidamo, and Arussi. Made on wood forms that create the bumpy format, theseshields are then further decorated with fine line etching. The shield in the Schmiedt Collection is a fine example displaying a dark brown patina as a round example with a high relief bump pattern. The intricate surface has a purposeful pattern that may distinguish the status of the owner.Diameter: 29"Comparable auction sales:https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/18631/lot/6315/https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/22830/lot/204/References:1. Stone, G. C. (1934). A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration, and Use of Arms andArmor in All Countries and in All Times. Mineola NY: Dover Publications.2. Spring, Christopher (1993). African arms and armour. British Museum Press.3. Paschke, D. and Zirngibl, M. (1992) Afrikanische Schilde / African Shields. PanterraPress4. Benitez-Johannot, P. and Barbier, J-P (2000) Shields: Africa, Southeast Asia andOceania, Prestel.Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Very Good early 20th C. Indonesian Nias BALATO Sword ~ Dayak Headhunters.

Lot # 258 (Sale Order: 257 of 298)      

A rare sword of the Nias islands near Sumatra, this sword is called a balato and is of the classic balato form but with the distinctive carved hilt in the form of a drago...morenhead called a lasara. This relatively typical balato has a form that closely follows the design of the lasara (dragon head) hilt and which can be seen illustrated in Modigliani (1890) and Fischer (1909). While the classic balato is considered to be a traditional headhunters sword the more common domestic knife of the Nias takes a similar form. The headhunters swords are distinguished by their longer blades, such as this example. The blades are generally not laminated and can have various forms, the common factors are: a single edge that starts only a few centimeters from the hilt and more or less widening to the point. The lasara carved hilts are found in varying degrees of quality with earlier examples being distinguished primarily by patina of usage on the wooden handles, and sometimes earlier and more distinctive handle shapes, some of which can be found in the Schmiedt Collection. The lasara form itself has been identified as multiple types of creatures including a law' bird (Horner 1849); nibawa law, an animal whose function is to increase the strength of the sabre's owner (Schrader 1917); boar's head (Modigliani 1890); but also potentially as a naga or Hindu Javanese sea serpent (Viaro 2001). The Schmiedt Collection example has a well carved handle with the lasara form carved into the face of the pommel of the hilt and with a small creature sitting astride the back of the lasara called a bechu zocha, a spirit who hunts and feeds on men's shadows, just as men feed on pigs. This image can be regarded as a talisman working against the misfortunes that the bechu zocha spirit would ordinarily bring (Brenner-Felsach 1998). This hilt form is called niobawa lawolo and is the most frequent type of hilt found and comes in a variety of forms from more realistic to abstract forms (Van Zonneveld 2001). The scabbard is of two pieces of wood secured with strips of brass, while the talismanic basket, raga ifoboaya, at the top of the scabbard is of classic shape formed of woven rattan. The basket is decorated with animal teeth and what appear to be teeth made of wood, another telltale 20th century element, in a curved form. The blade now with pitting from age. Balato are difficult to date accurately, but considering the style of carving of the hilt, the oversized proportions of the bekhu figure, the use of wood for the charm basket, this example likely dates to the first half of the 20th century. Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 27" Blade Length : 17 3/4" Comparable auction sales:1. https://www.christies.com/lotfinder/lot_details/?intobjectid=50058342. https://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2014/collection-murray-frum-oceanie-pf1438/lot.45.html3. https://www.sothebys.com/es/auctions/ecatalogue/2012/art-dafrique-et-docanie-pf1218/lot.32.html4. https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/24872/lot/72/5. https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/20973/lot/3230/References:1. Van Zonneveld, A.G. (2001) Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago. Leiden: Art Books2. Viaro, M. A. (2001). Ceremonial sabres of nias headhunters in indonesia. Arts Et Cultures, 3, 150-171.3. Fischer, H.W. (1909) Katalog des ethnographischen Reichsmuseums- Die Inseln ringsum Sumatra, (vol. 4, Leiden)4. Modigiliani, E. (1890) Un viaggio a Nias.5. Brenner-Felsach, Joachim Freiherr von. Eine Reise nach Nias, die Indonesienexpedition 1887, edited by Reinhold Mittersakschmller, 171-75. Vienna: 19986. Schroder, E. E.W. S. Nias: Ethnographische, geographische en historische Aanteekeningen en Studin. 2 vols. Leiden: Brill, 1917.7. Horner, Johann Jakob. Batoe-Eilanden, ten Westen van Sumatra gelegen. In Tijdschrift voor Neerlands Indie. Batavia, 1840.Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Rare mid-20th C. Indonesian Nias BALATO Sword ~ (telugu, balatu sebua) ~ Impressive example.

Lot # 259 (Sale Order: 258 of 298)      

A rare sword of the Nias islands near Sumatra, this sword is called a balato and is of the classic balato form but with the distinctive carved hilt in the form of a drago...morenhead called a lasara. This relatively typical Balato has a form that follows the traditional lasara (dragon head) hilt illustrated in Modigliani (1890) and Fischer (1909). While the classic balato is considered to be a traditional headhunters sword the more common domestic knife of the Nias takes a similar form. These swords have continued to be made into the 20th century and shifted from their traditional use as headhunter swords to being used in dancing ceremonies in the mid-20th century and then as tourist swords later into the 20th century. This sword likely of the later half of the 20th century. The lasara carved hilts are found in varying degrees of quality with earlier examples being distinguished primarily by patina of usage on the wooden handles, and sometimes earlier and more distinctive handle shapes, some of which can be found in the Schmiedt Collection. This hilt of classic with a carved handle in the lasara form and with the small creature sitting astride the back of the lasara called the bechu zocha. This hilt form is called niobawa lawolo and is the most frequent type of hilt found and comes in a variety of form from more realistic to abstract forms (Van Zonneveld 2001). The scabbard is of two pieces of wood secured with strips of rattan, while the talismanic basket, raga ifoboaya, at the top of the scabbard is of classic shape and decorated seemingly entirely with carved teeth that appear to be teeth made of wood, a telltale 20th century element, in a curved form. The blade now with pitting from age. Considering the relatively inelegant style of the carving of the hilt, the oversized proportions of the bechu figure, and the use of wood for the charm basket, this example likely dates to around middle of the 20th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 27 1/4" Blade Length : 17 1/2"Comparable auction sales:1. https://www.christies.com/lotfinder/lot_details/?intobjectid=50058342. https://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2014/collection-murray-frum-oceanie-pf1438/lot.45.html3. https://www.sothebys.com/es/auctions/ecatalogue/2012/art-dafrique-et-docanie-pf1218/lot.32.html4. https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/24872/lot/72/5. https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/20973/lot/3230/References:1. Van Zonneveld, A.G. (2001) Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago. Leiden: Art Books2. Viaro, M. A. (2001). Ceremonial sabres of nias headhunters in indonesia. Arts Et Cultures, 3, 150-171.3. Fischer, H.W. (1909) Katalog des ethnographischen Reichsmuseums- Die Inseln ringsum Sumatra, (vol. 4, Leiden)4. Modigiliani, E. (1890) Un viaggio a Nias.5. Brenner-Felsach, Joachim Freiherr von. Eine Reise nach Nias, die Indonesien expedition 1887, edited by Reinhold Mittersakschmller, 171-75. Vienna: 19986. Schroder, E. E.W. S. Nias: Ethnographische, geographische en historische Aanteekeningen en Studin. 2 vols. Leiden: Brill, 1917.7. Horner, Johann Jakob. “Batoe-Eilanden, ten Westen van Sumatra gelegen. In Tijdschrift voor Neerlands Indie. Batavia, 1840.Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Rare mid-20th C. Indonesian Nias BALATO Sword ~ (telugu, balatu sebua) ~ Impressive example.

Lot # 260 (Sale Order: 259 of 298)      

A rare sword of the Nias islands near Sumatra, this sword is called a balato and is of the classic balato form but with the distinctive carved hilt in the form of a drago...morenhead called a lasara. This relatively typical Balato has a form that relatively closely follows the traditional lasara (dragon head) hilt and can be seen in Modigliani (1890) and Fischer (1909). The classic balato is considered to be a traditional headhunters sword the more common domestic knife of the Nias takes a similar form. These swords have continued to be made into the 20th century and shifted from their traditional use as headhunter swords to being used in dancing ceremonies in the mid-20th century and then as tourist swords later into the 20th century. This sword likely of the later half of the 20th century. Traditionally, these swords would be used in headhunting and numerous rituals and ceremonies in Nias required severed heads. Chiefs would pay warriors to perform this task on their behalf and during peacetime, these hired warriors would hide at a bend in the path and take as victim the first person to pass by. If warriors were not available the chief slave would be responsible for the task, and the aim of headhunting was to take possession of the dead person's soul, or life-force, and to offer it as a gift to the spirits. In this way, the chief acquired a form of guarantee for his afterlife (Viaro 2001). Lasara carved hilts are found in varying degrees of quality with earlier examples being distinguished primarily by patina of usage on the wooden handles, and sometimes earlier and more distinctive handle shapes, some of which can be found in the Schmiedt Collection. This hilt of classic with a carved handle in the form called a niobawa bae representing the head of a monkey with a bekhu zocha on its back. The locked teeth of the spirit may it appear aggressive and this form of hilt associated with a monkey allegedly provides the warrior with speed in combat (Van Zonneveld 2001). The bekhu zocha spirit hunts and feeds on mens shadows, just as men feed on pigs (Brenner-Felsach 1998). The hilt of this example sustaining some damage to the face.The scabbard is of two pieces of wood secured with strips of brass, while the talismanic basket, raga ifoboaya, at the top of the scabbard is of classic shape and decorated seemingly entirely with carved teeth that appear to be teeth made of wood, a telltale 20th century element, in a curved form. The blade now with pitting from age. Considering the relatively inelegant style of the carving of the hilt, the oversized proportions of the bekhu figure, and the use of wood for the charm basket, this example likely dates to around middle of the 20th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 26" Blade Length : 19 3/4" Comparable sales:1. https://www.christies.com/lotfinder/lot_details/?intobjectid=50058342. https://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2014/collection-murray-frum-oceanie-pf1438/lot.45.html3. https://www.sothebys.com/es/auctions/ecatalogue/2012/art-dafrique-et-docanie-pf1218/lot.32.html4. https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/24872/lot/72/5. https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/20973/lot/3230/References:1. Van Zonneveld, A.G. (2001) Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago. Leiden: Art Books2. Viaro, M. A. (2001). Ceremonial sabres of nias headhunters in indonesia. Arts Et Cultures, 3, 150-171.3. Fischer, H.W. (1909) Katalog des ethnographischen Reichsmuseums- Die Inseln ringsum Sumatra, (vol. 4, Leiden)4. Modigiliani, E. (1890) Un viaggio a Nias.5. Brenner-Felsach, Joachim Freiherr von. Eine Reise nach Nias, die Indonesien expedition 1887, edited by Reinhold Mittersakschm, 171-75. Vienna: 1998.Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Late 19th - early 20th C. Indonesian Sumatra, Minangkabau KERIS Dagger.

Lot # 261 (Sale Order: 260 of 298)      

Keris from the Minangkabau often resemble in form the Bugi style keris of Sulawesi. The classic form of the Minangkabau keris has a Jawa Demam style hilt. Keris daggers s...moreuch as this example were referred to as a karih by the Minangkabau. They were worn for ceremonial purposes as a sign of power and prestige and were designed to slip into a manas waist band. While blades would often be considered the primary element of a keris, the hilts and sheaths were also valued especially when fine woods were used or the hilts displayed a high level of artistic carving. Even simple looking hilts could carry deep esoteric meaning for the commissioner and the lines of a Jawa Demam hilt, such as on this example, need to be considered carefully to determine whether it displays an aged patina or other distinctive characteristic enabling it to be dated or attributed more closely to a region or province.This example is finely made with a hilt of the classic interpretation of a Jawa Demam, and generally based on the overall form could be from Minangkabau province judging by the slightly upturned shape which is similar to Bugis forms but different in the profile of the upper portion fo the hilt. The scabbard has a wrangka tengah form in the tebeng Peninsular Malay style commensurate with the Sumatran style blade. The high quality wood has a vivid flame pattern found only on the desirable hardwoods used in this form of sheaths. The blade is a 9 luk variant of a Sumatran form showing a simple linear pamor. The mendok is a Sumatran or Malay cup form.Overall early 20th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 17 3/4" Blade Length : 15" References:1. Frey, E. (1988) The Kris: Mystic Weapon of the Malay World. Oxford University Press.2. Mardianto, W. A to Z Sesuatu mengenai KERIS dan TOMBAK KERIS SENJATA TRADISIONAL INDONESIA A to Z3. Ki Empu Jhuel. Pamor Keris4. Ghiringelli. V. (2007) The Invincible Krises 2. Saviolo Publisher5. Van Zonneveld, A.G. (2001) Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago. Leiden: Art Books6. Gardner, G.B. (2009) Keris and other Malay Weapons. Orchid Press7. Weihrauch, A., Kloubert, U. and Aljunied, A. (2017)The Gods & the Forge: Balinese Ceremonial Blades- The Gods & the Forge in a Cultural Context. IFICAH8. Maisey, A. Dhapur and pamor according to Djeno Harumbrojo, Jogjakarta. Kerisattosanaji9. Neka, W. S. (2014) Understanding Balinese Keris: An Insiders Perspective. Neka Art Museum10. Marval, G.de. UKIRAN - Essai de classification des poignes de kris de l'archipel indonesienDetailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Very Large 19th - early 20th C. African Masai Tribe Painted Cowhide War Shield

Lot # 262 (Sale Order: 261 of 298)      

Very Large 19th - early 20th C. African Masai Tribe Painted Cowhide War ShieldProvenance Schmiedt collection. Total size : 37" x 29"Detailed condition reports are not inc...moreluded in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Very Nice Silver & Diamonds Mounted Indonesian Java KERIS Dagger ~ Damascus Steel Blade ~ First Half

Lot # 263 (Sale Order: 262 of 298)      

Javanese keris daggers, are some of the most highly variegated objects in the world of arms and armor.Despite maintaining a distinct overall form and shape, the variation...more, in particular of the style ofblades is greater than any other arms and armor culture. The most classic style of hilt is from theRoyal Palaces of Surakarta in central Java and called a cecekan hilt in the Yudo Winatan style.This hilt has seven flat planar sides, with two carvings at internal angles of the hilt. Anotherform closely related in form is from the Palaces of Yogyakarta and is referred to as a NunggakSemi shape, but also has the distinctive carvings on the inside angles of the handle, thoughgenerally does not have kuncung carving.This example in the Schmiedt collection is a good example of a classic Javanese keris of cecekanhilt form in the Surakarta style or Yudo Winatan. The finely carved hilt features a Javanese selutin filigreed silver. The 7 luk blade has a dapor sempana najul. The pamor is indistinct with agreyish etch. The scabbard is mounted with a gayamana style wood wrangka and a chiseledsilver pendok, sheath covering, with a floral design. The chape of the sheath has a half moonprotrusion which is indicative of the influence of Dutch swords on keris, which otherwiseregister very few Europeanized influence except in the imagery of some Maduran hilts. Thissame form of protrusion was found mainly on European, including Dutch swords, of the period1750-1900 or so. Early to mid-20th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 21 1/2" Blade Length : 14"References:1. Frey, E. (1988) The Kris: Mystic Weapon of the Malay World. Oxford University Press.2. Mardianto, W. A to Z Sesuatu mengenai KERIS dan TOMBAK KERIS SENJATATRADISIONAL INDONESIA A to Z3. Ki Empu Jhuel. Pamor Keris4. Ghiringelli. V. (2007) The Invincible Krises 2. Saviolo Publisher5. Van Zonneveld, A.G. (2001) Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago.Leiden: Art Books6. Gardner, G.B. (2009) Keris and other Malay Weapons. Orchid Press7. Maisey, A. Dhapur and pamor according to Djeno Harumbrojo, Jogjakarta.Kerisattosanaji8. Marval, G.de. (1994) UKIRAN - Essai de classification des poignées de kris de l'archipelindonesien.Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Good early 20th C. Indonesian Java KERIS Dagger ~ Layered Damascus Steel Blade.

Lot # 264 (Sale Order: 263 of 298)      

Javanese keris, are some of the most highly variegated objects in the world of arms and armor.Despite maintaining a distinct overall form and shape, the variation, in par...moreticular of the style ofblades is greater than any other arms and armor culture. The most classic style of hilt is from theRoyal Palaces of Surakarta in central Java and called a cecekan hilt in the Yudo Winatan style.This hilt has seven flat planar sides, with two carvings at internal angles of the hilt. Anotherform closely related in form is from the Palaces of Yogyakarta and is referred to as a NunggakSemi shape, but also has the distinctive carvings on the inside angles of the handle, thoughgenerally does not have kuncung carving.This example in the Schmiedt collection is a good example of a classic Javanese keris of cecekanhilt form in the Surakarta style or Yudo Winatan. The finely carved hilt features a Javanese selutin filigreed silver. The straight blade has a dapor brojol. The pamor is an Adeg form with threelong lines running the length of the blade. The scabbard is mounted with a Ladranga stylewrangka in the Surakarta form with a rich chatoyancy and a brass windowed pendok, sheath covering.First half of 20th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 20 3/4" Blade Length : 16 3/4"References:1. Frey, E. (1988) The Kris: Mystic Weapon of the Malay World. Oxford University Press.2. Mardianto, W. A to Z Sesuatu mengenai KERIS dan TOMBAK KERIS SENJATATRADISIONAL INDONESIA A to Z3. Ki Empu Jhuel. Pamor Keris4. Ghiringelli. V. (2007) The Invincible Krises 2. Saviolo Publisher5. Van Zonneveld, A.G. (2001) Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago.Leiden: Art Books6. Gardner, G.B. (2009) Keris and other Malay Weapons. Orchid Press7. Maisey, A. Dhapur and pamor according to Djeno Harumbrojo, Jogjakarta.Kerisattosanaji8. Marval, G.de. (1994) UKIRAN - Essai de classification des poignes de kris de l'archipelindonesien.Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Wonderful Indonesian Bali Carved Wood KERIS Dagger Holder ~ Late 19th - Early 20th C

Lot # 265 (Sale Order: 264 of 298)      

Provenance - Schmiedt Collection.Indonesian Bali Carved Wood KERIS Dagger Holder ~ Late 19th - Early 20th C. Height : 13 1/2"References:1. Frey. E. (1988) The Kris: Myst...moreic Weapons of the Malay World. Oxford UniversityPress2. Castillo, C. (2009) PROTECTIVE ART OF INDONESIA BALINESE KRISHOLDERS FROM THE COLLECTION OF THE BERMAN MUSEUM OFWORLD HISTORY. Dissertation. University of AlabamaDetailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Large Indonesian Bali Carved Wood KERIS Dagger Holder ~ Late 19th - Early 20th C.

Lot # 266 (Sale Order: 265 of 298)      

Provenance - Schmiedt Collection. Indonesian Bali Carved Wood KERIS Dagger Holder ~ Late 19th - Early 20th C. Height : 24 1/2"References:1. Frey. E. (1988) The Kris: Myst...moreic Weapons of the Malay World. Oxford UniversityPress2. Castillo, C. (2009) PROTECTIVE ART OF INDONESIA BALINESE KRISHOLDERS FROM THE COLLECTION OF THE BERMAN MUSEUM OFWORLD HISTORY. Dissertation. University of AlabamaDetailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Very Nice Large Indonesian Bali Carved Wood KERIS Dagger Holder ~ Late 19th - Early 20th C

Lot # 267 (Sale Order: 266 of 298)      

Provenance - Schmiedt Collection. Indonesian Bali Carved Wood KERIS Dagger Holder ~ Late 19th - Early 20th C. Height : 26"References:1. Frey. E. (1988) The Kris: Mystic W...moreeapons of the Malay World. Oxford UniversityPress2. Castillo, C. (2009) PROTECTIVE ART OF INDONESIA BALINESE KRISHOLDERS FROM THE COLLECTION OF THE BERMAN MUSEUM OFWORLD HISTORY. Dissertation. University of AlabamaDetailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Rare 19th C. Indonesian Bali Carved Wood KERIS Dagger Holder with Gold Leaf Inlaying.

Lot # 268 (Sale Order: 267 of 298)      

Provenance - Schmiedt Collection. Rare Indonesian Bali Carved Wood KERIS Dagger Holder with traces of gold inlaying. Circa 19th Century. Height : 22"References:1. Frey. E...more. (1988) The Kris: Mystic Weapons of the Malay World. Oxford UniversityPress2. Castillo, C. (2009) PROTECTIVE ART OF INDONESIA BALINESE KRISHOLDERS FROM THE COLLECTION OF THE BERMAN MUSEUM OFWORLD HISTORY. Dissertation. University of AlabamaDetailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Unusual FROG Indonesian Bali Carved Wood KERIS Dagger Holder ~ Late 19th - Early 20th C.

Lot # 269 (Sale Order: 268 of 298)      

Provenance - Schmiedt Collection. Indonesian Bali Carved Wood KERIS Dagger Holder ~ Late 19th - Early 20th C. Height : 17 1/2"References:1. Frey. E. (1988) The Kris: Mys...moretic Weapons of the Malay World. Oxford UniversityPress2. Castillo, C. (2009) PROTECTIVE ART OF INDONESIA BALINESE KRISHOLDERS FROM THE COLLECTION OF THE BERMAN MUSEUM OFWORLD HISTORY. Dissertation. University of AlabamaDetailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Nice 20th C. Indonesian Bali Carved Wood KERIS Dagger Holder.

Lot # 270 (Sale Order: 269 of 298)      

Provenance - Schmiedt Collection. Nice 20th C. Indonesian Bali Carved Wood KERIS Dagger Holder. Height : 18"References:1. Frey. E. (1988) The Kris: Mystic Weapons of the...more Malay World. Oxford UniversityPress2. Castillo, C. (2009) PROTECTIVE ART OF INDONESIA BALINESE KRISHOLDERS FROM THE COLLECTION OF THE BERMAN MUSEUM OFWORLD HISTORY. Dissertation. University of AlabamaDetailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Very Cool Early 20th C. Indonesian Fishing or Hunting Basket (Bag) ~ Birds Feet Decorations.

Lot # 271 (Sale Order: 270 of 298)      

Very Cool Early 20th C. Indonesian Fishing or Hunting Basket (Bag) ~ Birds Feet Decorations. Late 19th , early 20th Century. This example in the Schmiedt Collection is a ...morevery nice example of traditional hunting bag, decorated with real dried birds feet. Total size :14 1/2" x 13 1/2" x 11"Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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African Ethiopian 19th C. AGELGEL ~ Shepherds Food Basket

Lot # 272 (Sale Order: 271 of 298)      

Sherpherds Lunch Basket. Late 19th , early 20th Century. Ethiopia. This example in the Schmiedt Collection is a very nice example of traditional so called Agelgel , Food ...morebasket. Woven grass with a leather outer covering. These baskets were commonly used in Ethiopia by the Oromo and other people as a kind of "lunch/hot box". They would fill them with "Njira", the type of pancakes eaten commonly in Ethiopia (along with "wat" or sauce) and these insulated baskets would keep the food warm for many hours, so it could be eaten at midday. The baskets usually have straps to tie them closed as well as to make carrying them easier. The leather becomes heavily patinated with extended use. Diameter : 15", height is 8"Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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African Ethiopian 19th C. AGELGEL ~ Shepherds Food Basket

Lot # 273 (Sale Order: 272 of 298)      

Sherpherds Lunch Basket. Late 19th , early 20th Century. Ethiopia. This example in the Schmiedt Collection is a very nice example of traditional so called Agelgel , Food ...morebasket. Woven grass with a leather outer covering. These baskets were commonly used in Ethiopia by the Oromo and other people as a kind of "lunch/hot box". They would fill them with "Njira", the type of pancakes eaten commonly in Ethiopia (along with "wat" or sauce) and these insulated baskets would keep the food warm for many hours, so it could be eaten at midday. The baskets usually have straps to tie them closed as well as to make carrying them easier. The leather becomes heavily patinated with extended use. Diameter : 13", height is 8"Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Very Impressive 19th - early 20th C. African Ethiopian War Shield

Lot # 274 (Sale Order: 273 of 298)      

Very Impressive 19th - early 20th C. African Ethiopian War Shield.Diameter is 21 1/2".Provenance : Schmiedt Collection.Detailed condition reports are not included in this...more catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Rare Philippine Igorot or Bontoc War Shield ~ Mountain Province, Philippines ~ First Half of 20th C.

Lot # 275 (Sale Order: 274 of 298)      

A distinct form of a Philippine shield attributed to the Bontoc people of the northern Philippines and now the Mountain region. The shortened and flattened points of the ...moreshield, two onone side and three on the other, delineate this style from the more well-known Igorot shield which has longer and sharp points. Shields of this type are associated with headhunting and would be carried alongside the classic Bontoc axe, which were used to cut the heads off of fallen enemies. Other shields of this type can be seen in the plates taken of Philippine arms captured during the Spanish American war and the Philippine Insurrection and kept at the Smithsonian Institution. The shield in the Schmiedt Collection of a solid piece of carved wood, but with some damage to the sides. The 'damaged' sides of the shield are a good sign of authentic tribal use as during wartime (before and/or after) all warriors would celebrate and while walking in a row tap with a stick on the sides of their shield. These shields were therefore also sometimes soundof tapping on the shields now at the National Gallery of Australia. Other early images of these shields were published in an ethnographic study of the Bontoc.Total length: 32 3/4", length of the blade: 15"Comparable auction sales:https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/16146/lot/4010/https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/16146/lot/4011/https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/21588/lot/14/References:1. Krieger, H. (1926) The Collection of Primitive Weapons and Armor of the PhilippineIslands in the United States National Museum. Smithsonian Institution; United StatesNational Museum, Bulletin 1372. Jenks, A.E. (1904) The Bontoc Igorot. Manila. Dept. of InteriorDetailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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Rare Late 19th C. Indonesian Dayak Headhunter's Kliau Kalimantan Painted War Shield ~ Very Impressiv

Lot # 276 (Sale Order: 275 of 298)      

Rare Late 19th C. Indonesian Dayak Headhunter's Kliau Kalimantan Painted War Shield ~ Very Impressive Large Example.Dating from the late 1800s, provenance: Kalimantan, In...more wood, of rectangular shape, pointed on the upper and lower side, ribbed in the center, embossed and hand-painted with animal teeth, animals similar to octopus and with floral and geometrical motifs. With a strong enarme inside, embossed in one piece with the shield with ends with human faces. Provenance - Schmiedt Collection. Shield Dimensions: Height 47", width 13"See the two very similar specimen in 'Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago' by Albert G. van Zonneveld, page 72/73, the first bought by the Sultan of Lutei in 1883. Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com

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1.178.0.1842.dd73747.10.47