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This Sumbawa Parang, now beautifully restored, is a remarkable example of Sumbawan craftsmanship from circa 1750–1830. Its technical design reflects the practical needs of rural life, while the Naga carving and historical context highlight its cultural significance as a tool and symbol for a village leader. Post-restoration, it’s in excellent condition, with a polished blade, a cohesive scabbard, and a vibrant handle that make it a standout piece for display or study. For researchers, it offers insights into Sumbawan traditions and craftsmanship, while for collectors, it’s a tangible piece of history with both aesthetic and historical value.
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Technical Specifications (Post-Restoration)
- Overall Length (Unsheathed): 23.25 inches
- Blade Length: Approximately 18.5 inches (estimated, with the handle accounting for the remaining 4.75 inches)
- Scabbard Length: 20.5 inches
- Total Length (Sheathed): 25.25 inches
- Blade Width: 1.1 inches near the handle, tapering to ~1 inch near the tip before curving to a point
- Blade Thickness: 0.2610 inches near the handle, thinning to 0.0810 inches at the tip
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The Sumbawa Parang’s design highlights its utilitarian origins,optimized for chopping tasksin Sumbawa’s rural environment. The broad, slightly curved blade isideal for clearing vegetation or harvesting crops,with a balanced weight distribution thanks to the tapering width and thickness. The curved tip allows for slashing motions, suggestingversatility for self-defense, though it’s not primarily a combat weapon. Post-restoration, the parang feels solid and well-balanced, suitable for display or even light use, with its proportions reflecting the practical needs of its original owner.
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Materials and Craftsmanship
Blade: The blade, likely forged from layered steel—a traditional Indonesian technique has been polished to a gleaming finish, revealing its historical wear patterns (minor scratches and nicks) that tell a story of practical use. The steel’s robustness and flexibility are evident, a testament to Sumbawan blacksmithing skill.
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Handle: The handle is crafted from a dark tropical hardwood, possibly teak or ebony, featuring an intricately carved Naga head with an upturned snout, detailed with scales and stylized features. The horn grip, seamlessly restored, provides a comfortable hold, enhanced by a copper band near the base that adds both support and a decorative touch consistent with traditional designs.
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Scabbard: The scabbard, made of two wooden halves (likelykelicung wood,a durable and exotic wood native to Sumbawa and Lombok), is now securely bound with newly crafted copper bands in a traditional fold-over design. Small metal loops at the ends allow for a strap, emphasizing its portability. The restored section of the scabbard, where a missing wood chunk was repaired, blends well with the original wood, though it’s slightly darker, adding character to the piece.
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Unique Features
Naga Carving: The handle’s Naga head is a highlight, itsupturned snout symbolizing protection and vigilancein Sumbawan culture, rooted in Hindu-Buddhist mythology.The carving’s quality suggests skilled craftsmanship, likely reserved for an item of significance, such as one owned by a village elder.
Condition Post-Restoration
After restoration, the Sumbawa Parang is in excellent condition for its age (circa 195–275 years old as of 2025). The blade shines with a polished finish, preserving its historical wear while making it display-ready. The scabbard’s copper bands and repaired section ensure structural integrity, with the darker repair patch adding a subtle patina that complements the aged wood. The handle’s Naga carving is vibrant, the horn grip seamlessly integrated, and the copper band adds authenticity. Overall, the parang is a cohesive, aesthetically pleasing piece that balances historical authenticity with modern preservation, making it an ideal addition for a collector or researcher studying Sumbawan artifacts.