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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Good 19th C. Philippine Mindanao Moro Kris Sword ~ Rare Twist-Core Damascus Blade.

Lot # 1 (Sale Order: 1 of 298)      

Good 19th C. Philippine Mindanao Moro Kris Sword ~ Rare Twist-Core Damascus Blade.This is a classic sword of the Moro people of the southern Philippines and of the Sulu S...moreea areacalled a kris. The classic Moro kris is based heavily on the Indonesian keris but is distinctlylarger and made purposefully for fighting. The kris has always been the most famous of allMoro weapons and there are a wide set of variation of blade types, handle forms, and materials.Generally all kris blades are wide at the base, double-edged, and can be waved, half-waved halfstraight,or straight in which case they were more practical in combat. Older kris had fewerwaves and the waves were deeper and wider. Over time the waves became shallower, tighter, andmore numerous and therefore required greater skill to prevent the blade bouncing off or beingstuck in an enemys body. The higher number of waves meant the more potent the kris was intalismanic power. Sometimes engravings (often filled in with brass or silver inlay) are found onthe blade in okir motifs (vines, foliage, etc.) or Arabic script. Many kris blades are forged withfullers and these are likely heavily influenced by Malay style keris called malela keris (keris isthe Malay and Indonesian term for a dagger of similar but different form, while kris is used for Philippine swords which are larger and more distinct in form). Older kris before the 19thcentury tended to be smaller in size. Laminated steel patterns are also sometimes evident. One of the other key defining features of almost all kris blade is the ganja, or the portion of the blade at the base and which on genuine antique example is welded on, has opposite the hook likefretwork is a cavity in the form of an elephant, eagle, or the mouth of a naga (a mythical snake). This example in the Schmiedt Collection of fine quality. The hilt a simple straight handled formwith a flat pommel. The handle woven with twine. The 13 luk (the luk refers to the waves in theblade) is secured to the handle through the use of dual clamps called asang-asang in Tausug andbaca-baca in Maguindanao languages. The blade is an especially interesting example with aniron structure of distinctive form. The blade has been etched to bring out this pattern which shows a seemingly different and likely softer iron core and hardened outer edge. This form of smithing done by the Moro pan day (blade smith) is similar to have swords in China and Japan which were made with an inner softer core that would provide flexibility to the blade while the outer edge would be hardened and provide the strength and sharpened cutting edge. Late 19th century. Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 25 1/2"Blade Length : 22 1/4"References:1. Cato, R. (1996) Moro swords. Graham Brash: Singapore2. Barados, D., (1995) Land of the Morning: Treasures of the Philippines, San Francisco Craft &Folk Museum, 1995.3. Casal, G. et al, (1981) The People and Art of the Philippines, UCLA Museum of CulturalHistory4. Combes, F. (1667) Historia de Mindanao y Jol, por el p. Francisco Combs ... Obra publicadaen Madrid en 1667, y que ahora con la colaboracin del p. Pablo Pastells ... sacanuevamente ÃÂluz W. E. Retana. Madrid: [Viuda de M. Minuesa de los Rios]5. Krieger, H. W. (1926). The collection of primitive weapons and armor of the Philippine islands in the United States National museum. Washington: Govt. Print. Off..6. Macao Museum of Art. (2007). History of Steel in East Asia. Macao Museum of Art. Macau 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 C. Philippine Mindanao Moro Kris Sword with Silver Inlaid Arabic Script & Presentation Nam

Lot # 2 (Sale Order: 2 of 298)      

This is a classic sword of the Moro people of the southern Philippines and of the Sulu Sea area called a kris. The classic Moro kris is based heavily on the Indonesian ke...moreris but is distinctly larger and made purposefully for fighting. While the classic terminology of kris is used for these Philippine and Sulu sea swords, they are also known as Sundang. Generally all kris blades are wide at the base, double-edged, and can be waved, half-waved half-straight, or straight in which case they were more practical in combat. Older kris had fewer waves and the waves were deeper and wider. Over time the waves became shallower, tighter, and more numerous and therefore required greater skill to prevent the blade bouncing off or being stuck in an enemy's body. The higher number of waves meant the more potent the kris was in talismanic power. Sometimes engravings (often filled in with brass or silver inlay) are found on the blade in okir motifs (vines, foliage, etc.) or Arabic script. The terminology used to describe kris depends on the ethnic group in the southern Philippines that wielded the kris but the name used by the Tausugs, Samals and Yakans is kalis, while in Mindanao and in the Malay and Borneo regions where it was carried it is called Sundang and is used by the Maranaos, Maguindanos and others.Older kris before the 19th century tended to be smaller in size. Laminated steel patterns are sometimes evident. One of the other key defining features of almost all kris blade is the ganja, or the portion of the blade at the base and which on genuine antique example is welded on, has opposite the hook like fretwork on the right side (with the blade facing up), is a cavity in the form of an elephant, eagle, or the mouth of a naga (a mythical snake).This example in the Schmiedt Collection of fine quality. The hilt a simple straight handled form with a flat silver hilted pommel while the grip is woven with twine. The blade is secured to the handle through the use of dual clamps called asang-asang in Tausug and baca-baca in Maguindanao languages. The 9 luk blade is a good fighting example of heavy construction with long shallow waves while the cavity indicates the origin may be Mindanao. The relative straightness of the blade indicates this would have been more useful in battle.Dating to the late 19th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 28 1/4" Blade Length : 24 1/2"References:1. Cato, R. (1996) Moro swords. Graham Brash: Singapore2. Barados, D., (1995) Land of the Morning: Treasures of the Philippines, San Francisco Craft & Folk Museum, 1995.3. Casal, G. et al, (1981) The People and Art of the Philippines, UCLA Museum of Cultural History4. Combes, F. (1667) Historia de Mindanao y Joló, por el p. Francisco Combés ... Obra publicada en Madrid en 1667, y que ahora con la colaboración del p. Pablo Pastells ... saca nuevamente á luz W. E. Retana. Madrid: [Viuda de M. Minuesa de los Rios]5. Krieger, H. W. (1926). The collection of primitive weapons and armor of the Philippine islands in the United States National museum. Washington: Govt. Print. Off..6. Macao Museum of Art. (2007). History of Steel in East Asia. Macao Museum of Art. MacauDetailed 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. Philippine Mindanao Datu's Barong Sword with Damascus Steel Blade.

Lot # 3 (Sale Order: 3 of 298)      

This is a classic sword of the Moro people of the southern Philippines and of the Sulu Sultanatearea called a barong. These swords have a distinctive form that is specifi...morec to this region of SouthEast Asia and the southern Philippines, though it is believed that they are related to theIndonesian badik knife, though in a greatly expanded and enlarged form.The barong has a distinct leaf shaped blade which is an effective cutting and slicing form, andmay be used for stabbing depending on the profile the smith develops. Barong blades are oftenthick and heavy with the weight aiding in the slicing capability of this sword. Older blades canrange from small lengths of 8" upwards to 22" which is uncommon. In some cases barong bladesare also patterned in lamellar patterns and in rare examples with twistcore iron. Some bladeswere also known to either have been traded from China, and are marked with a series of Chinesecharacters, or were marked by Moro smiths as a mark of quality with pseudo-marks which areunintelligible. Especially high quality barong were owned by Moro Datus who led tribesagainst successive invasions from the Spanish to the Americans, and were only ultimatelydefeated in the early 20th century through overwhelming American firepower.The handles are simple in design except in the pommel which in some examples is a flamboyantinterpretation of the cockatua with a long metal ferrule (usually made of silver or fine patternedhardwood). The ferrule will often also have lacquered and braided natural fiber rings to aid inthe grip. Cockatuas tended to be made of banati wood, however on higher end barongsbelonging to those of the upper classes rarer materials were utilized. The highest quality barongswould also have very elaborate carved junggayan, meaning (elongated) cockatuas, while simplerexamples would have vestigial cockatua motifs.This example in the Schmiedt Collection of fine quality and likely a Datu's barong. The hilt iswell carved in the jungayyan cockatua pattern in beautiful patterned wood, remaining in nearlyperfect condition with fine ukkil or okir pattern carvings. The ferrule is made of silver and long,indicating a Sulu Moro example, as opposed to a Yakan form which tended to have shorterferrules. The blade of classic barong profile, with a thick spine and showing signs of lamellarpatterning.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 25" Blade Length : 16 1/4"References:1. Cato, R. (1996) Moro swords. Graham Brash: Singapore2. Barados, D., (1995) Land of the Morning: Treasures of the Philippines, San Francisco Craft &Folk Museum, 1995.3. Casal, G. et al, (1981) The People and Art of the Philippines, UCLA Museum of CulturalHistory4. Pigafetta, A. (2010). PIGAFETTA'S ACCOUNT OF MAGELLAN'S VOYAGE. In H. Stanley (Ed.),First Voyage Round the World by Magellan: Translated from the Accounts of Pigafetta andOther Contemporary Writers (Cambridge Library Collection (Hakluyt First Series, pp. 33)163). Cambridge: Cambridge University Press5. Combes, F. (1667) Historia de Mindanao y Joló, por el p. Francisco Comb's ... Obra publicadaen Madrid en 1667, y que ahora con la colaboración del p. Pablo Pastells ... sacanuevamente á luz W. E. Retana. Madrid: [Viuda de M. Minuesa de los Rios]6. Krieger, H. W. (1926). The collection of primitive weapons and armor of the Philippineislands in the United States National museum. Washington: Govt. Print. Off..7. Macao Museum of Art. (2007). History of Steel in East Asia. Macao Museum of Art. Macau 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 C. Philippine Mindanao Datu's Moro Twistcore Damascus Kris Sword with Nicely Carved Pommel

Lot # 4 (Sale Order: 4 of 298)      

This is a classic sword of the Moro people of the southern Philippines and of the Sulu Sea areacalled a kris. The classic Moro kris is based heavily on the Indonesian ker...moreis but is distinctlylarger and made purposefully for fighting. The kris has always been the most famous of allMoro weapons and there are a wide set of variation of blade types, handle forms, and materials.Generally all kris blades are wide at the base, double-edged, and can be waved, half-waved halfstraight,or straight in which case they were more practical in combat. Especially high qualitykris for Datu's, would have been made of rare materials and had blades of especially fineconstruction with lamellar steel or in some rare cases twistcore blade forms. Datu's would havewielded these in battle against Americans during the successive (pacification) campaigns theAmerican carried out following the Spanish American War. The Moros armed resistance tookseveral forms. Some Moros, especially on heavily forested Mindanao, practiced guerrillawarfare, raiding U.S. encampments for weapons and setting ambushes on jungle trails. The mostunnerving form of Moro resistance was the juramentado, or suicide attack. A juramentadoattacker would seek to reach paradise by slaying as many nonbelievers as possible before beingkilled himself.Older kris before the 19th century tended to be smaller in size. Laminated steel patterns aresometimes evident. One of the other key defining features of almost all kris blade is the ganja, orthe portion of the blade at the base which on genuine antique examples is welded on, hasopposite the hook like fretwork, a cavity in the form of an elephant, eagle, or the mouth of a naga(a mythical snake).This example in the Schmiedt Collection is of Datu level quality. The hilt is a classic form with astylized carved kakatua pommel. The handle wrapped in twine and with silver or white metalfittings. The asang-asang clamps in silver, and potentially replaced from the originals. Theblade is a very fine example of shallow 7 luk form and displaying a complex lamellar patternwhich appears to be twistcore patterned. Twistcore blades are rare on Moro swords, and morecommonly found on Indonesian swords.Dating to the late 19th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 28 1/2" Blade Length : 24"References:1. Cato, R. (1996) Moro swords. Graham Brash: Singapore2. Barados, D., (1995) Land of the Morning: Treasures of the Philippines, San Francisco Craft &Folk Museum, 1995.3. Casal, G. et al, (1981) The People and Art of the Philippines, UCLA Museum of CulturalHistory4. Combes, F. (1667) Historia de Mindanao y Jol, por el p. Francisco Comb's ... Obra publicadaen Madrid en 1667, y que ahora con la colaboracion del p. Pablo Pastells ... sacanuevamente ¡ luz W. E. Retana. Madrid: [Viuda de M. Minuesa de los Rios]5. Krieger, H. W. (1926). The collection of primitive weapons and armor of the Philippineislands in the United States National museum. Washington: Govt. Print. Off..6. Macao Museum of Art. (2007). History of Steel in East Asia. Macao Museum of Art. MacauDetailed 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 19th C. Philippine Mindanao Moro Kris Sword with Fantastic Damascus Steel Blade.

Lot # 5 (Sale Order: 5 of 298)      

This is a classic sword of the Moro people of the southern Philippines and of the Sulu Sea areacalled a kris. The classic Moro kris is based heavily on the Indonesian ker...moreis but is distinctlylarger and made purposefully for fighting. The kris has always been the most famous of allMoro weapons and there are a wide set of variation of blade types, handle forms, and materials.Generally all kris blades are wide at the base, double-edged, and can be waved, half-waved half-straight,or straight in which case they were more practical in combat. Older kris had fewerwaves and the waves were deeper and wider. Over time the waves became shallower, tighter, andmore numerous and therefore required greater skill to prevent the blade bouncing off or beingstuck in an enemy's body. The higher number of waves meant the more potent the kris was intalismanic power such as this example. Sometimes engravings (often filled in with brass or silverinlay) are found on the blade in okir motifs (vines, foliage, etc.) or Arabic script. Many krisblades are forged with fullers and these are likely heavily influenced by Malay style keris calledmalela keris. Especially high quality kris for Datu's, would have been made of rare materialsand had blades of especially fine construction with lamellar steel or in some rare cases twistcoreblade forms. It is possible to differentiate between Moro kris and attribute to certain regions orethnic groups such as the Maguindano, Sulu Moros, and Maranaos, based on the design of theblades and the fullering. In some cases, certain types of hilts and decoration can also indicateorigin. One of the classic ways of distinguishing kris by region is by examining the cavity form,with slight variations in shape indicating different regional attributions.This example in the Schmiedt Collection of fine quality and likely originates from Maguindanaobased on the carving of the elephant trunk cavity (Cato 1996: pl. 41). The hilt is a classic formwith a stylized carved kakatua pommel. The handle wrapped in darkened cloth and then boundwith copper wire, which also is wound around the protrusion of the kakatua pommel. The asangasang clamps made of silver and original to the sword. The 17 luk blade is a fine late 19th centuryform, though the handle has design elements of the earlier forms judging by the refined carvedwood pommel. The blade displays elements of lamellar patterning.Dating to the late 19th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 26" Blade Length : 22"References:1. Cato, R. (1996) Moro swords. Graham Brash: Singapore2. Barados, D., (1995) Land of the Morning: Treasures of the Philippines, San Francisco Craft &Folk Museum, 1995.3. Casal, G. et al, (1981) The People and Art of the Philippines, UCLA Museum of CulturalHistory4. Combes, F. (1667) Historia de Mindanao y Joló, por el p. Francisco Combés ... Obra publicadaen Madrid en 1667, y que ahora con la colaboración del p. Pablo Pastells ... sacanuevamente á luz W. E. Retana. Madrid: [Viuda de M. Minuesa de los Rios]5. Krieger, H. W. (1926). The collection of primitive weapons and armor of the Philippineislands in the United States National museum. Washington: Govt. Print. Off..6. Macao Museum of Art. (2007). History of Steel in East Asia. Macao Museum of Art. MacauDetailed 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 Philippine Mindanao Horsehoof Moro Kris Sword ~ Layered Steel Blade.

Lot # 6 (Sale Order: 6 of 298)      

This is a classic sword of the Moro people of the southern Philippines and of the Sulu Sea areacalled a kris. The classic Moro kris is based heavily on the Indonesian ker...moreis but is distinctlylarger and made purposefully for fighting. The kris has always been the most famous of allMoro weapons and there are a wide set of variation of blade types, handle forms, and materials.Generally all kris blades are wide at the base, double-edged, and can be waved, half-waved halfstraight,or straight in which case they were more practical in combat. Older kris had fewerwaves and the waves were deeper and wider. Over time the waves became shallower, tighter, andmore numerous and therefore required greater skill to prevent the blade bouncing off or beingstuck in an enemys body. The higher number of waves meant the more potent the kris was intalismanic power such as this example. Sometimes engravings (often filled in with brass or silverinlay) are found on the blade in okir motifs (vines, foliage, etc.) or Arabic script. Especially highquality kris for Datus, would have been made of rare materials and had blades of especially fineconstruction with lamellar steel or in some rare cases twistcore blade forms. It is possible todifferentiate between Moro kris and attribute to certain regions or ethnic groups such as theMaguindano, Sulu Moros, and Maranaos, based on the design of the blades and the fullering. Insome cases, certain types of hilts and decoration can also indicate origin. Hilts were in avariation of forms, with most hilts following a standard form with a stylized kakatua, or cockatoobird, form. However other types of hilts exist with hilts shaped as stylized horsehoofs or roundballs as well.This example in the Schmiedt Collection is an interesting example of a form called a horsehoofkris. The hilt is wrapped in copper wire and twine, and the horsehoof pommel inlaid with motherof pearl. The horsehoof is generally associated with the Sulu Sultanate, which reigned overnorth Borneo and islands in the Sulu Sea, including Basilan. The form of horsehoof where thepommel is at a strong curve to the handle is especially associated with Basilan Island. The bladeis a fine straight fighting with three fullers in a pleasing pattern, two in the lower portion of theblade, near the ganja, and one in between running the remainder of the blade.First half of 20th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 27 1/4" Blade Length : 22 3/4" References:1. Cato, R. (1996) Moro swords. Graham Brash: Singapore2. Barados, D., (1995) Land of the Morning: Treasures of the Philippines, San Francisco Craft &Folk Museum, 1995.3. Casal, G. et al, (1981) The People and Art of the Philippines, UCLA Museum of CulturalHistory4. Combes, F. (1667) Historia de Mindanao y Joló, por el p. Francisco Combés ... Obra publicadaen Madrid en 1667, y que ahora con la colaboración del p. Pablo Pastells ... sacanuevamente á luz W. E. Retana. Madrid: [Viuda de M. Minuesa de los Rios]5. Krieger, H. W. (1926). The collection of primitive weapons and armor of the Philippineislands in the United States National museum. Washington: Govt. Print. Off..6. Macao Museum of Art. (2007). History of Steel in East Asia. Macao Museum of Art. MacauDetailed 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 Scarce 19th C. Philippine T'Boli Barong Sword with Rare Damascus Blade.

Lot # 7 (Sale Order: 7 of 298)      

An interesting sword from the T'boli tribe from Cotabato, Southern Mindanao,Philippines. T'boli swords rarely take the form of the Moro barong but this sword is aninteres...moreting cross-cultural amalgam with a barong blade and handle showing a barong form butcomposed in the T'Boli bronze casting tradition as opposed to the use of natural materials morecommon to other Moro barongs. The hilt is of solid cast bronze or brass picked out with bands ofdetailing, the whole edge of the pommel area is applied with half hemispherical links wherebrass chains may have been suspended.T'boli lost wax brass casting tradition is a long standing and distinctive tradition thatdistinguishes them amongst the people of the Philippines. The T'boli's brass casting tradition,which they call kem tau temwel is taught to children at a young age or from older casters called(the tau temwel). The traditional T'boli brass casting method involves several steps, tools, andmaterials following in the lost wax method known in many cultures around the world. There'sclay, which is dug from the earth. The clay will become the mold for the final product. The brassmaker also uses beeswax, which is collected from the forest and is shaped into the form of thebrass object. Then there's the brass itself, which is obtained from a metalsmith or a metalshop.The brass caster first forms the beeswax into the shape of the object and covers it with clay.The clay is then placed in a fire pit where it hardens (modern methods make use of a smallblowtorch to harden the clay). The brass is then melted and poured into the clay mold. The hotliquid melts the beeswax inside, allowing the brass to take up the space and form into shape. Thebrass caster lets the brass solidify. The clay mold is allowed to cool, with the brass castersubmerging it in water for a few minutes. Then the mold is opened and the brass object releasedfrom the mold and finished forus.While this barong is distinctive in its form among T'Boli weapons, generally the edged weaponsof the T'boli include two types of swords called tok and kafilan. Metal smiths recycle old brokengongs or other metal objects and use outside sources of steel (for example, scavenging the steelsprings from abandoned trucks). Blades are forged with skill and are heat-treated. Late 19th Century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 17 1/4" Blade Length : 12 1/4"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. Macau Museum of Art. (2007). History of Steel in Eastern Asia–A View on theDevelopment of Weaponry. Macau Museum of Art.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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Interesting 19th C. Visayas Philippine Garab Talibon Sword Dagger ~ Samar or Leyte Islands.

Lot # 8 (Sale Order: 8 of 298)      

An interesting sword from the Visayan group the garab is a typical weapon fromthe islands of Samar or Leyte. The swords have a distinct form with a crescent shaped blade ...moreflaton one side and sharpened with a convex edge on the other side. The blade often with a heavythickness and with a center of balance near the edge due to the weight of the blade.The other identifying stylistic features include the pommel of the hilt which always has a three-lobedcarving that resembles a flower bud flanked with leaves. The wood used in these swords isusually from the kamagong tree, known in English as the butter fruit or ironwood, the fruits ofwhich are related to persimmons. These swords were considered to be the favored weapon of theDios-Dios cult, also known as the Pulajanes. The Pulajanes were the members of a religiousrevival of Philippine beliefs that developed in the Visayas prior to the Philippine Revolution.As the Visayas were primarily Christian, the Pulajanes threatened the Christianization of theisland and at their peak, numbered around 10,000 - 15,000 adherents. The movement wasexterminated during the Philippine Revolution after the Philippine Constabulary took overpatrols in Samar, after the U.S. military declared the island as "pacified".This example in the Schmiedt Collection has a finely carved native wood hilt with floral decoration and thetri-lobed pommel, with the classic form blade, with a heavy belly. 19th-early 20th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 24 1/4" Blade Length : 18"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. Macau Museum of Art. (2007). History of Steel in Eastern Asia–A View on theDevelopment of Weaponry. Macau Museum of Art.3. Cato, R. (1996) Moro swords. Graham Brash: Singapore 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 19th C. Indonesian PARANG JIMPUL Sword ~ Dayak Headhunters Tribe ~ Sarawak or Borneo Islan

Lot # 9 (Sale Order: 9 of 298)      

A distinctive Bornean sword of the Sea Dayak, called a Parang Jimpul, this swordis similar in style to the classic Iban Dayak Mandau and is the traditional weapon of the ...moreSeaDayak and Kenyah people from Borneo. It is often thought that the Parang Jimpul may beconsidered as a hybrid between the Mandau and Langgai Tinggang usually date to the late 19thcentury.They are distinguished by a set of similar features to the Mandau though the blade of the Jimpulhas flat sides and is distinctly curved with a widened point and a slanted or drop point. Theblade often has two or three grooves, running at short distance from the back, as well as hooksand protrusions (krowit) near the hilt on the sharp edge. Chased designs can be found on bothsides near the hilt while the hilt and scabbard are made in the same way as those of the Mandau.The blades are often made of tempered metal and in some cases may display a lamellar pattern,similar to the pamor found on Indonesian kris blades, though this is highly uncommon. The hiltsare often delicately carved with various carving details varying across the many tribes of theDayak, but often depict creatures or anthropomorphic deities.This example in the Schmiedt Collection for example is a fine early and complete fightingexample with a finely carved hilt with short tufts of hair. The blade has a single deep fullerrunning along the length of the spine and have a well-proportioned krowit near the ricasso. Theslanted edge also has several curved and carved iron protrusions with inlays of brass metal. Thehilt displays a pleasing patina and carving of leeches, classically found Dayak Mandau also,indicating an earlier sword, while the blade is finely proportioned. The original scabbard is invery fine condition with nicely patterned carving of leeches, red tufts of hair, and rattan binding.Dating to the 19th century. Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 27 1/2" Blade Length : 19 1/2"References:1. Van Zonneveld, A.G. (2002). Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago.Koninklyk Instituut Voor Taal Land2. Heppell, M., et al, (2005) Iban Art: Sexual Selection and Severed Heads, C.Zwartenkot/Kit Publishers3. Sellato, B. (ed.), Plaited Arts from the Borneo Rainforest, NIAS Press, 20124. Fischer, H.W. (1909) Katalog des ethnographischen Reichsmuseums- Die Inselnringsum Sumatra, (vol. 4, Leiden)5. Tromp, S.W. (1888) Medeelingen Omtrent Mandaus. Internationales Archiv fürEthnographie. Band 1. Pp. 22-26 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 Strong 19th C. Philippine Datu's Moro KRIS Sword ~ Powerful Blade with Silver Inlays.

Lot # 10 (Sale Order: 10 of 298)      

This is a classic sword of the Moro people of the southern Philippines and of the Sulu Sea areacalled a kris. The classic Moro kris is based heavily on the Indonesian ker...moreis but is distinctlylarger and made purposefully for fighting. The kris has always been the most famous of allMoro weapons and there are a wide set of variation of blade types, handle forms, and materials.Generally all kris blades are wide at the base, double-edged, and can be waved, half-waved halfstraight,or straight in which case they were more practical in combat. Older kris had fewerwaves and the waves were deeper and wider. Over time the waves became shallower, tighter, andmore numerous and therefore required greater skill to prevent the blade bouncing off or beingstuck in an enemys body. The higher number of waves meant the more potent the kris was intalismanic power such as this example. Sometimes engravings (often filled in with brass or silverinlay) are found on the blade in okir motifs (vines, foliage, etc.) or Arabic script. Many krisblades are forged with fullers and these are likely heavily influenced by Malay style keris calledmalela keris. Especially high quality kris for Datus, would have been made of rare materialsand had blades of especially fine construction with lamellar steel or in some rare cases twistcoreblade forms. It is possible to differentiate between Moro kris and attribute to certain regions orethnic groups such as the Maguindano, Sulu Moros, and Maranaos, based on the design of theblades and the fullering.In some cases, certain types of hilts and decoration can also indicate origin. This variation withthe classic kakatua pattern pommel, were made of a variety of metal alloys and are likely to befrom the Sulu Sultanate. An especially elegant example was displayed in the 2019 exhibition(Steel and Magic) at the Deutsche Klingen Museum (2020) and attributed to the Sulu Sultanate.This example in the Schmiedt Collection is of fine quality. The pommel is formed from a metalalloy, potentially suasa or gilded silver. Suasa being a gold and copper alloy, sometimes alsoreferred to as (river gold). The hilt is wrapped in alternating metal bands. The blade is a finelymade example with okir decorations at the base and displaying lamellar patterns throughout.This level of decoration of the hilt and the blade indicate this would have been a Datus kris.Dating to the 19th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 26 1/4" Blade Length : 21 3/4"References:1. Cato, R. (1996) Moro swords. Graham Brash: Singapore2. Barados, D., (1995) Land of the Morning: Treasures of the Philippines, San Francisco Craft &Folk Museum, 1995.3. Casal, G. et al, (1981) The People and Art of the Philippines, UCLA Museum of CulturalHistory4. Combes, F. (1667) Historia de Mindanao y Joló, por el p. Francisco Combés ... Obra publicadaen Madrid en 1667, y que ahora con la colaboración del p. Pablo Pastells ... sacanuevamente á luz W. E. Retana. Madrid: [Viuda de M. Minuesa de los Rios]5. Krieger, H. W. (1926). The collection of primitive weapons and armor of the Philippineislands in the United States National museum. Washington: Govt. Print. Off.6. Macao Museum of Art. (2007). History of Steel in East Asia. Macao Museum of Art. Macau7. Wetzler, S. (2020) Steel and Magic. Edged Weapons of the Malay Archipelago. EditionFichter, Frankfurt am MainDetailed 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 Early 20th C. Philippine Moro Kris Sword ~ Rare Damascus Blade.

Lot # 11 (Sale Order: 11 of 298)      

This is a classic sword of the Moro people of the southern Philippines and of the Sulu Sea areacalled a kris. The classic Moro kris is based heavily on the Indonesian ker...moreis but is distinctlylarger and made purposefully for fighting. The kris has always been the most famous of allMoro weapons and there are a wide set of variation of blade types, handle forms, and materials.Generally all kris blades are wide at the base, double-edged, and can be waved, half-waved half-straight,or straight in which case they were more practical in combat. Sometimes engravings(often filled in with brass or silver inlay) are found on the blade in okir motifs (vines, foliage,etc.) or Arabic script. Many kris blades are forged with fullers and these are likely heavilyinfluenced by Malay style keris called malela keris. Especially high quality kris for Datus,would have been made of rare materials and had blades of especially fine construction withlamellar steel or in some rare cases twistcore blade forms. It is possible to differentiate betweenMoro kris and attribute to certain regions or ethnic groups such as the Maguindano, Sulu Moros,and Maranaos, based on the design of the blades and the fullering.In some cases, certain types of hilts and decoration can also indicate origin. On this variation ofhilt, with this form of straight handle is likely be a Maranao fighting kris (Cato 1996). A verysimilar form with the same handle type and blade form is illustrated in Macao Museum of Art(2007).This example in the Schmiedt Collection is of fine quality and likely a fighting example. Thehandle is the straight form used for fighting while the 11 luk blade is a finely chiseled form likelyof the early 20th century as the fullering is more angular in form and sharper. The hilt is wrappedin twine, some lost now, and with a round flattened carved pommel.Early 20th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 28 3 /4" Blade Length : 25 3/4"References:1. Cato, R. (1996) Moro swords. Graham Brash: Singapore2. Barados, D., (1995) Land of the Morning: Treasures of the Philippines, San Francisco Craft &Folk Museum, 1995.3. Casal, G. et al, (1981) The People and Art of the Philippines, UCLA Museum of CulturalHistory4. Combes, F. (1667) Historia de Mindanao y Joló, por el p. Francisco Combés ... Obra publicadaen Madrid en 1667, y que ahora con la colaboración del p. Pablo Pastells ... sacanuevamente á luz W. E. Retana. Madrid: [Viuda de M. Minuesa de los Rios]5. Krieger, H. W. (1926). The collection of primitive weapons and armor of the Philippineislands in the United States National museum. Washington: Govt. Print. Off.6. Macao Museum of Art. (2007). History of Steel in East Asia. Macao Museum of Art. Macau7. Wetzler, S. (2020) Steel and Magic. Edged Weapons of the Malay Archipelago. EditionFichter, Frankfurt am MainDetailed 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 Headhunters Tribe Sword

Lot # 12 (Sale Order: 12 of 298)      

A distinctive Bornean sword of the Sea Dayak this type of sword is called a niabor.The niabor has a convex edge and concave back broadening towards the tip in the form of...more acutlass and similar to the parang nabur. The blade usually has one or more broken hollowsections and no midrib. Most blades are not usually decorated though this example has floraldecoration the entire length of the blade. In some versions, a projection is forged to the blade,which is seated on the cutting edge and serves as a finger guard. This is called kundieng. It istypical of these swords. The hilt carved in in a distinct form with a thirty degree angle betweenthe handle and the projecting pommel. Often, the hilt is carved with traditional Dayak designs,including scrolls and leech motifs. The leech (lemetek) is associated with blood sucking and sowas considered an appropriate motif for a weapon.The Niabor is very similar to another Sea Dayak sword called Langgai Tinggang which has asimilar blade but a traditional Mandau style handle. These swords often would reflect theowners predilections and interests so would not always be doctrinaire in their construction.The example in the Schmiedt Collection for example has the hilt of a niabor and the blade formof a langgai tinggang and is a well preserved example with a finely made blade displaying awell-defined blade profile including floral decoration along the face of the blade. The hilt isseated to the blade with a cast brass bolster. The sword retains its original scabbard of carvedwood with fine carving to the mouth of the scabbard.Likely dating to the early 20th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 24 1/2"Blade Length :19"References:1. Van Zonneveld, A.G. (2002). Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago.Koninklyk Instituut Voor Taal Land2. Heppell, M., et al, (2005) Iban Art: Sexual Selection and Severed Heads, C.Zwartenkot/Kit PublishersDetailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.comPrebidding Ends: May 07, 2021 11:00 pm PDTLive Internet Bidding Begins: May 08, 2021 12:00 am PDT

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Fine 19th C. Philippine Moro Datu's BARONG Mindanao Sword ~ Amazing Damascus Blade Different on Each

Lot # 13 (Sale Order: 13 of 298)      

This is a classic sword of the Moro people of the southern Philippines and of the Sulu Sultanatearea called a barong. These swords have a distinctive form that is specifi...morec to this region of SouthEast Asia and the southern Philippines, though it is believed that they are related to theIndonesian badik knife, though in a greatly expanded and enlarged form.The barong has a distinct leaf shaped blade which is an effective cutting and slicing form, andmay be used for stabbing depending on the profile the smith develops. Barong blades are oftenthick and heavy with the weight aiding in the slicing capability of this sword. Older blades canrange from small lengths of 8" upwards to 22" which is uncommon. In some cases barong bladesare also patterned in lamellar patterns and in rarer examples with twistcore iron. Some bladeswere also known to either have been traded from China, and are marked with a series of Chinesecharacters, or were marked by Moro smiths as a mark of quality with pseudo-marks which areunintelligible.The handles are simple in design except in the pommel which in some examples has a distinctiveinterpretation of a cockatua showing a vestigial appropriation of the form. Often handles wouldbe made from finely patterned wood representing the social class of the owner.This example in the Schmiedt Collection is of fine quality workmanship and likely a Datusbarong even though it is not a jungayyan form, the delicate carving at the bottom of the pommelremains in fine condition with no losses. The ferrule is made of silver and long, indicating aSulu Sultanate Moro example. The blade of classic barong profile, with a thick spine andshowing signs of lamellar patterning.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 24" Blade Length : 17" 1. Cato, R. (1996) Moro swords. Graham Brash: Singapore2. Casal, G. et al, (1981) The People and Art of the Philippines, UCLA Museum of CulturalHistory3. Combes, F. (1667) Historia de Mindanao y Joló, por el p. Francisco Combés ... Obra publicadaen Madrid en 1667, y que ahora con la colaboración del p. Pablo Pastells ... sacanuevamente á luz W. E. Retana. Madrid: [Viuda de M. Minuesa de los Rios]4. Krieger, H. W. (1926). The collection of primitive weapons and armor of the Philippineislands in the United States National museum. Washington: Govt. Print. Off..5. Macao Museum of Art. (2007). History of Steel in East Asia. Macao Museum of Art. MacauDetailed 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 19th C. Philippine Mindanao Moro KRIS Sword ~ Silver Inlaid Layered Steel Blade ~ Fine Car

Lot # 14 (Sale Order: 14 of 298)      

This is a classic sword of the Moro people of the southern Philippines and of the Sulu Sea areacalled a kris. The classic Moro kris is based heavily on the Indonesian ker...moreis but is distinctlylarger and made purposefully for fighting. The kris has always been the most famous of allMoro weapons and there are a wide set of variation of blade types, handle forms, and materials.Generally all kris blades are wide at the base, double-edged, and can be waved, half-waved halfstraight,or straight in which case they were more practical in combat. Older kris had fewerwaves and the waves were deeper and wider. Over time the waves became shallower, tighter, andmore numerous and therefore required greater skill to prevent the blade bouncing off or beingstuck in an enemys body. The higher number of waves meant the more potent the kris was intalismanic power such as this example. Sometimes engravings (often filled in with brass or silverinlay) are found on the blade in okir motifs (vines, foliage, etc.), Arabic script, or other esotericmotifs such as this example in the Schmiedt Collection. Many kris blades are forged with fullersand these are likely heavily influenced by Malay style keris called malela keris.This example in the Schmiedt Collection is of fine quality and likely a Datus example. Theoverall form is likely a Sulu example based on the relatively simple but finely carved pommeland the finely fullered blade. However it is possible the blade is Maranao as the cavity displaysan elongated form and the spike in the middle runs parallel to the ganja. The blade is anespecially fine example with an inlay of concentric overlaid circles of unknown meaning. Theseinlays would likely have had significance to the owner, and in this case the level of qualityindicates that this would have been a Datus kris.Dating to the late 19th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 27 1/4" Blade Length : 23 1/4" References:1. Cato, R. (1996) Moro swords. Graham Brash: Singapore2. Barados, D., (1995) Land of the Morning: Treasures of the Philippines, San Francisco Craft &Folk Museum, 1995.3. Casal, G. et al, (1981) The People and Art of the Philippines, UCLA Museum of CulturalHistory4. Combes, F. (1667) Historia de Mindanao y Joló, por el p. Francisco Combés ... Obra publicadaen Madrid en 1667, y que ahora con la colaboración del p. Pablo Pastells ... sacanuevamente á luz W. E. Retana. Madrid: [Viuda de M. Minuesa de los Rios]5. Krieger, H. W. (1926). The collection of primitive weapons and armor of the Philippineislands in the United States National museum. Washington: Govt. Print. Off.6. Macao Museum of Art. (2007). History of Steel in East Asia. Macao Museum of Art. Macau7. Wetzler, S. (2020) Steel and Magic. Edged Weapons of the Malay Archipelago. EditionFichter, Frankfurt am MainDetailed 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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Extremely Rare 18th-19th C. Indonesian Tanimbar KRAI SILAI ~Great Sword~ Fine Carved Bone mount.

Lot # 15 (Sale Order: 15 of 298)      

Tanimbarese culture developed a wide group of weaponry of which the mostimpressive is the (Great Sword) or Krai Silai. Generally used as a ritual object, these swords wer...moreeoften found in ranges of twenty to thirty inches, with shorter examples used for daily use and thelonger examples reserved for important rituals. Tanimbar Island does not have a rich history ofiron smithing, unlike other Indonesian islands, and it is considered that the blades were acquiredfrom itinerant tradesmen who visited the islands. The hilts were then created by the Tanimbareseoften with intricate designs decorated in carved patterns. Some swords were equipped with ahand protector, and others have sea cowrie shells attached to the hilt, as is the case with thissword, which are believed to represent severed heads.The Krai Silai was rarely used in battle and would hang inside the house, often suspended from asmall hole in the blade as on this example near the tip. Only in certain circumstances would theweapon be wielded in battle or for ritual purposes, such as the payment of a bride price,celebration of a ritual headhunters' feast, and the fighting of a ceremonial duel were the mostimportant occasions. Tanimbarese society is patrilineal and when a marriage occurs, a womanbecomes part of the descent group of her spouse. This accompanied by the presenting of a brideprice that consists of several parts and would include objects such as heirloom krai silai.Besides being an instrument of the male violence necessary to a man's quest for prestige, theantique sword also played a role in the context of ritual aggression. The weapon would be usedin solemn duels, in which the two factions separated by a bamboo fence faced each other.Until the beginning of the 20th century, wars between Tanimbarese villages were commonplace.Reasons to go to war were constantly sought out, with an ultimate goal of showing off a victory.Combat would often yield casualties, and the victorious party would attempt to take the heads ofthe slain home as trophies. During a special ritual, in which the Krai Silai was ostentatiouslybrandished, the headhunters would extol their own valor and marital prowess, reenacting theirexploits in the presence of the vanquished enemy's heads and the village community. This example in the Schmidt Collection is an Exceptionally Impressive Large specimen with a very thick and massive blade of actively patterned Damascus steel, having a superbly crafted hilt of carved bone panels connected together. Dating to the 18th - 19th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 34 1/2" Blade Length : 27 1/4"1. Van Zonneveld, A.G. (2001) Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago.Leiden: Art Books2. Nico de Jonge, "Sword with handle resembling a human face in profile," in Eyes of theAncestors: The Arts of Island Southeast Asia at the Dallas Museum of Art, ed. ReimarSchefold in collaboration with Steven Alpert (Dallas: Dallas Museum of Art; New Havenand London: Yale University Press, 2013), 288-289Detailed 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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Scarce Early 20th C. Indonesian Borneo NIABOR Sword ~ Dayak Headhunters Tribe

Lot # 16 (Sale Order: 16 of 298)      

A distinctive Bornean sword of the Sea Dayak this type of sword is called a niabor.The niabor has a convex edge and concave back broadening towards the tip in the form of...more acutlass and similar to the parang nabur. The blade usually has one or more broken hollowsections and no midrib. Most blades are not usually decorated though this example has floraldecoration the entire length of the blade. In some versions, a projection is forged to the blade,which is seated on the cutting edge and serves as a finger guard. This is called kundieng. It istypical of these swords. The hilt carved in in a distinct form with a thirty degree angle betweenthe handle and the projecting pommel. Often, the hilt is carved with traditional Dayak designs,including scrolls and leech motifs. The leech (lemetek) is associated with blood sucking and sowas considered an appropriate motif for a weapon.The Niabor is very similar to another Sea Dayak sword called Langgai Tinggang which has asimilar blade but a traditional Mandau style handle. These swords often would reflect theowners predilections and interests so would not always be doctrinaire in their construction.The example in the Schmiedt Collection for example has the hilt of a niabor and the blade formof a langgai tinggang and is a well preserved example with a finely made blade displaying awell-defined blade profile including floral decoration along the face of the blade. The hilt isseated to the blade with a cast brass bolster. The sword retains its original scabbard of carvedwood with fine carving to the mouth of the scabbard.Likely dating to the early 20th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 28 1/2"Blade Length : 21 1/2"References:1. Van Zonneveld, A.G. (2002). Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago.Koninklyk Instituut Voor Taal Land2. Heppell, M., et al, (2005) Iban Art: Sexual Selection and Severed Heads, C.Zwartenkot/Kit PublishersDetailed 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 20th C. Indonesian Javanese KERIS Dagger with Dramatic Damascus Blade ~ Surakarta, Java, I

Lot # 17 (Sale Order: 17 of 298)      

The Javanese keris Dagger, is one of the most highly variegated objects in the world of arms and armor.Despite maintaining a distinct overall form and shape, the variatio...moren, in particular of the style ofblades is greater than any other arms and armor culture. The hilts more often follow a distinctstyle, with some regional variations. The most classic style of hilt is from the Royal Palaces ofSurakarta in central Java and called a cecekan hilt. This hilt has seven flat planar sides, with twocarvings at internal angles of the hilt. The one nearest the pommel represents the kala mask, abenevolent demon and the small protrusion in the carving called a kuncung represents a nose.Another form closely related in form is from the Palaces of Yogyakarta and is referred to as aNunggak Semi shape, but also as the distinctive carvings on the inside angles of the handle.Before Islam became dominant, hilt forms had been anthropomorphic in nature and morereflective of those still found in Bali. As Islam prohibits the depiction of living things, these hiltsbecame more and more abstract with the central Javanese forms in Surakarta and Yogyakarta themost abstract.On the Javanese keris, the main part of the dagger, including the blade, sheath, and hilt eachcharacterize the keris in terms of origination, era, owner, and symbolism. The blade, or wilah, isthe most valued part, holding the sacred and esoteric power of the keris. The different forms ofpamor and blade shapes all have specific attributions to the type of owner that is most suited tothat paomor and shape and also the magical powers it can provide. The differing pamor patternsare made through the operation of the empu, a highly valued member of Javanese society. Bladeshave a series of waves called luk, or may alternately be straight. Any keris above 13 luk isuncommon and made for either someone of high status of representing some esoteric need of thecommissioner.This example in the Schmiedt Collection is a Javanese Keris of cecekan form in the Surakartastyle with a Yudo Winatan form hilt, also called an ukiran. The blade is hand forged and with arare 25 luk pattern and consists of pamor pattern called ngulit semangka, or watermelon skin.The mendak, or cuff between the blade and hilt, is in silver and the Surakarta style. Thewarangka, or the scabbard throat and which enables regional distinctions, is of GayamanTaman type (kidney shaped) in the Surakarta form. The gandar (scabbard body) with a chiseledbrass pendok (cover) featuring embossed decoration.Dating from first half of 20th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 20" 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 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'archipelindonésienDetailed 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 Late 19th- early 20th C. Indonesian Malay KERIS Dagger ~ Minangkabau ~ East Sumatra ~ Fine Dama

Lot # 18 (Sale Order: 18 of 298)      

Keris from Minangkabau have a distinct form similar to those of from the Bugisregion, but slightly distinctive features. As is often the case there are mixed elements fro...moremdifferent regions found on the same object. In the case of Bugis keris, most have hilts carved ofvarious materials or cast in precious materials such as silver and set at a ninety degree angle inthe form of a pistol grip. These handles are referred to as a kerdas form. Some Bugis kerisscabbards also have a loop like attachment called a toil-toli, which is most often worn by higherstatus individuals especially indicative on older examples and those who can afford to purchasesuch an example of later period examples. Whereas Minankabau keris often have similarhandles to Bugis forms, but with scabbards that have a large buntut, or bottom portion that flaresout into an ovular shape. Minangjabau keris forms are found both in Sumatra and the state ofNegri Sembilan in Peninsula Malaysia.This example in the Schmiedt Collection is a fine representation of an antique example. Thekerdas form handle is carved of wood, and the cup seating the blade, called a pendongkok inMalay, is brass and faceted. A similar style pendongkok is illustrated in Ghiringelli (2007, pg.29). The sheath is typical in form for Minangkabau workmanship with a large wrangka in theTengah form, and the gandar, or the covering over the wood of the long section of the sheath, isin brass with finely carved floral designs.Dagger's blade is very finely crafted and a straight form often referred to as a bahari form, butdisplaying a richly patterned pamor. This style is approximated by a form called Udan Mas (KiEmpu Jhuel) showing a linear pattern of small circular designs in the iron the length of the blade.Overall likely early 20th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 20 1/4" Blade Length : 15 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 BooksDetailed 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 Strong Indonesian Bali KERIS Dagger ~ Powerful Dasmascus Steel Blade ~ Carved Horn Grip.

Lot # 19 (Sale Order: 19 of 298)      

Keris from Bali are some of the most finely crafted among the Indonesianarchipelago. As Bali is a Hindu society, the influences on the keris have survived theIslamicizati...moreon of form and design found elsewhere in the region, with some exceptions. As aresult, Balinese keris often sport hilts carved with richly designed Hindu deities in more realisticmanner than the more the stylized interpretations found in other parts of the region, such as thehighly stylized Garuda imagery of the Bugis or on Sumatra. The keris played a particularlyimportant role in Balinese society and is used as a ritual tool in almost every Balinese religiousceremony. Standing as pusaka, a powerful sanctified heirloom and serving as a strong marker ofsocio-economic status, a keris could only be made by Pande blacksmiths who claim status higherthan that of a Brahman. The historical development of the Balinese keris is related to theorigination of the keris in the early part of the 2nd millennium A.D. and which spread to Balifrom the east Javanese kingdom of Kedhiri from 11th-13th centuries. The Majaphit conquest ofBali in 1343 especially influenced the development of the keris in Balinese society.This example in the Schmiedt Collection is a good representation of a classic Balinese form.Dagger hilt appears to represent a raksasa, or a demon. Raksasa representations are common inBalinese hilts and usually is represented by a demon with bulging eyes and fangs sitting atop thetriangular tumpal motif. The wrangka is a classic Balinese form axe-shaped called a kandik.The blade is a finely crafted 9 luk form, called a dhapur luk sia representing in Balinese culturethe perfection and completion of the body and soul because the number nine in Hinduism andBuddhism is considered to be final (Neka 2014). The blade has finely patterned linear patterncalled pamor miring.First Half of 20th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 27 3/4" Blade Length : 22" 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. Weihrauch, A., Kloubert, U. and Aljunied, A. (2017)The Gods & the Forge: BalineseCeremonial Blades- The Gods & the Forge in a Cultural Context. IFICAH8. Neka, W. S. (2014) Understanding Balinese Keris: An Insiders Perspective. Neka ArtMuseumDetailed 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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Exquisite Indonesian Bugis/Sulawesi KERIS Dagger for Royalty ~ Silver, Gold, Ruby & Emerald Stones.

Lot # 20 (Sale Order: 20 of 298)      

Keris from the southern Sulawesi region of Bugis have a distinctive look anddesign. Handles are often carved of various materials or cast in precious materials such as si...morelverand set at a ninety degree angle in the form of a pistol grip. These handles are referred to as akerdas form. Some Bugis keris scabbards also have a loop like attachment called a toil-toli,which is most often worn by higher status individuals especially indicative on older examplesand those who can afford to purchase such an example of later period examples.This example in the Schmiedt Collection is a fine representation of first half of 20th century workmanship. The handle and scabbard are both covered in silver filigree and silver granulation and inlaid withgold floral designs. There are also inlays of precious stones, potentially rubies or garnets inaddition to green stones such as emeralds.Dagger's blade is well made and the overall form, or dapor, is called lar ngatap representing a straightblade with this specific form of ganja. The pamor pattern is called dwi warna with more thanone pattern present in the blade. The ganja displays a pamor mas kemambang, while the singleline that runs the length of the blade is called a sada saler. Along the sides of the sada salerpattern appears to be a pattern termed a manggar, also referred to as a coconut palm pattern.The blade earlier than the mounts, which are overall 20th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 17 1/4" Blade Length : 13 1/2" 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 KerisDetailed 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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Lovely 20th C. Indonesian Yogyakarta / Java KERIS Dagger with Silver & Gold Mounts ~ Rare Carved Dam

Lot # 21 (Sale Order: 21 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. This hilt has seven flatplanar sides, with two carvings at internal angles of the hilt. The one nearest the pommelrepresents the kala mask, a benevolent demon and the small protrusion in the carving called akuncung represents a nose. These highly abstract forms represent the highest level of abstractionin Indonesian keris handles, though other such as the Bugis hilt representing a garuda are alsohighly abstract.The blade, or wilah, of the keris is the most valued part, holding the sacred and esoteric power ofthe keris. The different forms of pamor and blade shapes all have specific attributions to the typeof owner that is most suited to that pamor and shape and also the magical powers it can provide.Any keris above 13 luk is uncommon and made for either someone of high status of representingsome esoteric need of the commissioner.This example in the Schmiedt collection is a Javanese Keris of with a cecekan ukiran, or hilt, inthe Surakarta style, Yudo Winatan. The blade is hand forged and with a 13 luk pattern calleddapor naga siluman and consists of pamor pattern called ngulit semangka, or watermelon skin.The base of the blade, gandik, is chiseled with a naga, snake, head and inlaid in the mouth withgold. The selut cup seating the Surakarta hilt is beautifully made of gilt metal or gold, and themendak (cuff) between hilt and blade in the Surakarta style. The warangka (scabbard throat) isin the Ladrang Surakarta type. The gandar (scabbard body) with a chiseled and gilded metalpendok (cover) featuring embossed and repousse floral decoration of high quality workmanship.First Half of 20th century.Dagger 's Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 20 1/4" Blade Length : 14 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 poignées de kris de l'archipelindonésienDetailed 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 Yogyakarta Java KERIS Dagger ~ Fine Damascus Blade of Rare Patter

Lot # 22 (Sale Order: 22 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 pa...morerticular of the style ofblades is greater than any other arms and armor culture. The most classic style of hilt is from theRoyal Palaces of Java and called a cecekan hilt. This form of hilt has seven flat planar sides, withtwo carvings at internal angles of the hilt. The one nearest the pommel represents the kala mask,a benevolent demon and the small protrusion in the carving called a kuncung represents a nose.The form from the Palaces of Yogyakarta is referred to as a Nunggak Semi and has a lessenlarged pommel than the Surakarta form, but has the distinctive carvings on the inside angles ofthe handle.The blade, or wilah, of the keris is the most valued part, holding the sacred and esoteric power ofthe keris. The different forms of pamor and blade shapes all have specific attributions to the typeof owner that is most suited to that pamor and shape and also the magical powers it can provide.This example in the Schmiedt collection is a Javanese Keris of cecekan form in the Yogyakartastyle called Nunggak Semi. The blade is hand forged and with a straight pattern called daporbethok and consists of dwi warna pamor pattern with the central portion of small circles calledudan mas and the outer edges forged in the pattern called untu walang. The mendak (cuff)between hilt and blade in Surakarta style inlaid with semi-precious stones, either intan intan rosecut diamonds or rock crystals. The warangka (scabbard throat) of Gayaman Surakarta type.The gandar (scabbard body) with a chiseled brass Pendok (cover) featuring embossed andrepousse decoration imitating a palm or rattan weave.First half of 20th century.Dagger Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 20" Blade Length : 14 1/2".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'archipelindonésienDetailed 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 Rare Indonesian Sumatra KERIS Dagger in Fossil Mammoth Tooth mounts ~ Early Blade with Gold.

Lot # 23 (Sale Order: 23 of 298)      

Keris throughout the Malay archipelago often have a variety of features that can beascribed to differing regions due to the travel by skilled craftsman from one region to...more another. Inaddition, the migration of styles of workmanship is also a possibility. Therefore, one must lookat all of the elements of a keris to determine where it may be from. Keris, Dagger such as this example in the Schmiedt Collection represent several interesting design elements. The handle has theupturned face and snout that some associate with the kingfisher bird hilt of the Malay Peninsulaand Thailand but is more likely a representation of a Wayang figure, perhaps Rajamala (Van Zonneveld 2001). Hilts similar to this, but with more detailed carving were made in Tegal inNorthern Java (Ghiringelli 2011). Other hilts of this similar form are known as a Lampung style.The wrangka of the sheath form in the Tengah style from East Sumatra with a classicallyenlarged buntut.This fine example of an interesting Sumatran keris is composed of an en suite carved hilt andwrangka. The remainder of the sheath is wood with silver fittings and a carved buntut. The longstemmed cup is in a classically Sumatran style (Frey 1986). The hilt has elements of the classicSumatran Jawa Demam figure but with an upturned nose and more humanoid features that haveelements of Lampung form. The straight blade has gold decoration at base of the blade. As iscommon on Sumatra and Malay keris, there is no discernible pamor pattern, as opposed to kerisfound in Java and Bali.First half of 20th century, Blade is 19th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 18 1/2" Blade Length : 14" References:1. Frey, E. (1988) The Kris: Mystic Weapon of the Malay World. Oxford University Press2. 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. UKIRAN - Essai de classification des poignées de kris de l'archipelindonésienDetailed 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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Beautiful Indonesian Surakarta, Java KERIS Dagger ~ Painted Mounts ~ Rare Damascus Pattern Blade ~ D

Lot # 24 (Sale Order: 24 of 298)      

Javanese keris Dagger, 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. In Javanese culture, the keris is reveredas tosan aji (Javanese for sacred heirloom weapons) and considered a pusaka, or treasuredheirloom. A pusaka keris given by a Javanese king to nobles or his subjects, was meant tosymbolize the king's confidence bestowed upon the receiver and was considered a great honor.These keris would be composed of rare materials and have exceptional blades of fine forging byJavanese empus. The most classic style of hilt is from the Royal Palaces of Surakarta in centralJava and called a cecekan hilt. This hilt has seven flat planar sides, with two carvings at internalangles of the hilt. The one nearest the pommel represents the kala mask, a benevolent demonand the small protrusion in the carving called a kuncung represents a nose. Another formclosely related in form is from the Palaces of Yogyakarta and is referred to as a Nunggak Semishape, but also has the distinctive carvings on the inside angles of the handle. These highlyabstract forms represent the highest level of abstraction in Indonesian keris handles, though othersuch as the Bugis hilt representing a garuda are also highly abstract.This example in the Schmiedt collection is a Javanese Keris of cecekan form in the Surakartastyle called Yudo Winkan. The blade is hand forged and with a 7 luk pattern most closelyapproximated by the form known as dapor jaran guying and consists of a rare pamor patterncalled Ron Pakis, or Bulu Ayam (chicken feathers). Judging by the deep wear of the blade it isof considerable age and has been mounted in 20th century mounts, and most likely is a pusakablade. The selut cup seating the Surakarta hilt is beautifully made of silver and inlaid with rockcrystal or intan intan, or rough diamond. The warangka (scabbard throat) of Ladrang Surakartatype and painted in the form called sunggingan. The gandar (scabbard body) painted red.First half of 20th century, Blade is earlier.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 19 1/4" 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'archipelindonésienDetailed 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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Verty Good 19th C. Ethiopian Arabic SAIF or SHOTEL Sword ~ Powerful Blade with Engraved Decorations.

Lot # 25 (Sale Order: 25 of 298)      

A classic form of sword from Ethiopia referred to as a saif, this straight sword is a well-known style of sword introduced in the 19th century and often mounted with impo...morertedEuropean blades. Swords were often awarded to citizens by the emperor for merit in battle or other activities and as Ethiopia was independent for a long period of time without having beencolonized by any of the European powers until the 1930s, there is a profusion of swords fromImperial period Ethiopia. This example in the Schmiedt Collection is of typical form with a handle of classic form with a mirrored flared pommel and crossguard with a tubular cross section.The blade of this sword is single edged and likely made by Wilkinson, a famous English sword maker, and which exported many blades to Ethiopia during the period of Menelik II (1885-1913), who was also known as the Lion of Judah. This blade crisply decorated in the fullers with floral designs typical of the period and with a deeply stamped Lion of Judah motif at the ricasso.A group of these blades with similar Amharic inscriptions and designs can be seen in early 20th century Wilkinsons sword catalog.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 37" Blade Length : 31 1/4" 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.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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1.178.0.761.2502f97.10.135