
Malay Sewar
Sewar Dagger with Horn & Silver Mounts
Sumatra/Malay Peninsula
19th century
length: 28cm
This sewar dagger is a good example of its type. The chape, which terminates with an unusual pointy end, and upper part of the wooden scabbard are encased in silver sheet engraved with typically Malay scrolling foliage. The middle section of the scabbard is encased with four pairs of silver rings.
The hand guard is of finely carved and pierced horn, as is the hilt. The hilt ring is of silver and is decorated with an applied filigree plaque.
The blade is of steel and is single-edged.
Sewars were intended as stabbing weapons.
This example is in fine condition. There are no losses or repairs. It has a fine patina.
References
Gardner, G.B., Keris and other Malay Weapons, Orchid Press, 2009 (reprint of 1936 original).
Provenance
UK art market
Inventory no.: 2511
SOLD