Identified - Sumbawa Parang, Indonesia, Maylay World

[jcastaway]

Hi folks,
I thought I would share a reconditioning project we just wrapped up. I picked this project up from a buddy that was purchased at auction and he asked me to try and mend it. The sword was sold as a "SEA JAYAT PORITIOL NORTH BORNED SWORD AND SHEATH" and it had a broken scabbard and horn grip. Please let me know if you know anything about this blade and I will share more info that I research below.
Thanks!

[jcastaway]

Scabbard Repair:
The scabbard is actually two halves bound together by metal bands. Most of the metal bands were missing and a good sized chunk of wood was missing. I wasn't sure the optimal way to fix but thought it was best to repair as a single piece and cut to preserve the two halves.

[jcastaway]

The horn grip was broken likely due to a strike and there appeared to be no pin at least near the break. While this blade was likely was never meant to hit big physical objects I thought best to install a pin and fiber glassed the horn interior. I then used a stainable filler and matched the color to the original horn color as best as possible.

[jcastaway]

Here are some images of the completed project. I cut strips of copper to make new bands and copied the original fold over design to secure. This was a fun project and it's nice to see the blade in one piece.

[smithy]

That looks awesome! Someday you will have to share how you filled that scabbard wood gap. Can you share a pic of that repaired area?

I believe that is a Malay world sword! Give that area a look.
Chat soon.

[jcastaway]

Bingo! Thanks for the nudge. Based on a quick skim this is likely a Maylay World Parang Sumbawa. I updated the thread subject title.

I didn't realize how many variations of Maylay swords there are. I originally suspected it was a Pedang but after making a comparison and my assumption this was made for cutting vegetation I believe this to be more like a Golok. After additional research I believe this to be a Parang Sumbawa.(08/31/24)

I'm going to do more research now on this type of blade and the carvings. I see many interesting threads out there relating to them and will report back soon.

[jcastaway]

Here is the repaired area. You can still see it but honestly when holding and interacting it's not noticeable. The method is a slow process of adding layers of wood material and shaping. I bet if we spent another half day we could make it even better but we likely spent enough time for the overall value. TBD

[jcastaway]

A Sumbawa Parang, often referred to simply as "parang" in the context of Sumbawa, Indonesia, is a traditional machete or large knife that holds both practical and cultural significance for the people of Sumbawa, an island in West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.

• Cultural Significance: The parang is not just a tool but a symbol deeply embedded in the culture of Sumbawa. It's commonly seen carried by men in rural areas, indicating its everyday utility as well as its role in traditional attire and ceremonies. This practice reflects a blend of utility, tradition, and identity, where the parang might be used for tasks like cutting vegetation, but also signifies readiness, protection, or status within the community.

• Philosophical and Symbolic Values: Ethnographic studies, like those mentioned in the context of Sumbawa, often delve into the deeper meanings behind such artifacts. The parang could symbolize various values like respect, community, or even philosophical concepts like readiness for life's challenges. Its presence in daily life might also reflect historical practices, social structures, or even spiritual beliefs, where tools like the parang are imbued with cultural narratives.

• Economic Aspect: The mention of machete craftsmen in Sumbawa indicates an economic activity where these parangs are not only culturally significant but also contribute to local craftsmanship and economy. This aspect highlights how traditional items like the parang can be both a cultural artifact and a product of local industry, facing modern market dynamics.
  General Context in Indonesia: While directly related to Sumbawa, the concept of a parang or machete-like tool is widespread across Indonesia, with variations like the Badik from Sulawesi showing how such tools can have regional adaptations and cultural significance. This broader context might influence or be reflected in the Sumbawa Parang's design or use.

The Sumbawa Parang is more than just a tool; it's a piece of cultural heritage that embodies the spirit, daily life, and historical context of Sumbawa's inhabitants. Its existence and use today continue to blend tradition with modern life, reflecting both practical needs and cultural pride.

[jcastaway]

The depiction of a Naga head with an upturned snout can be interpreted through various cultural and symbolic lenses, primarily within the context of Southeast Asian, particularly Indonesian, mythology and art.
Naga in Mythology:

• General Concept: In Hindu-Buddhist mythology, which heavily influences Indonesian culture, the Naga is a serpent or dragon-like creature that symbolizes both the destructive and protective aspects of nature. Nagas are often associated with water, rain, rivers, and the underworld, embodying the power of life and fertility but also potential chaos and destruction.

Symbolism of the Upturned Snout:

• Protection and Vigilance: An upturned snout might symbolize alertness or vigilance, suggesting the Naga is guarding something sacred or significant, like a temple, a treasure, or a realm. This could be interpreted as a protective gesture, where the Naga is ready to defend against intruders or threats.

• Connection to the Sky or Heavens: The upturned snout could also symbolize a connection between the earth and the heavens, reflecting the Naga's role as a creature that can move between different realms. This might signify spiritual or cosmic connections, suggesting a bridge between the mundane and the divine.

• Aggression or Threat: In some interpretations, especially in artistic representations, an upturned snout might convey aggression or a threatening posture, warning against those who might disturb or challenge the Naga's domain.

Cultural Context:

• Indonesian Art: In Indonesian art, especially in regions with strong Hindu-Buddhist influences like Java or Bali, Nagas are often depicted in temple carvings, statues, and textiles. The specific design of the Naga's head, including an upturned snout, could be stylistic, but it also carries symbolic weight, often used in architectural elements like temple gates or water spouts to symbolize protection or the flow of life-giving water.

• Regional Variations: The interpretation might differ slightly across regions. For instance, in areas with strong local animistic beliefs, the Naga might represent local spirits or deities with specific attributes or stories.

In summary, a Naga head with an upturned snout in Indonesian or broader Southeast Asian context likely symbolizes protection, vigilance, or a connection between different realms (earth, water, sky). It's a potent symbol of power, fertility, and the dual nature of existence, deeply rooted in the mythological and cultural fabric of the region.