ANTIQUE PAIWAN WARRIOR'S SWORD WITH FIGURES

Origin: Taiwan, Paiwan People     (Provenance:  Ken & Rosella Dalke Collection- Santa Cruz CA, Ex. Tad Dale- Santa Fe New Mexico)

Period/Date: 19th-Very early 20th century

Materials:  hardwood, steel, iron wire, pewter and or tin

Description:  This sword and scabbard shows significant wear and use.  It features two ancestor figures, four human heads and two snake heads (one on each of the scabbard).  It likely originally had the classic red lacquer paint associated with Paiwan artifacts but its surface has been worn down to a rich luster from long use.  Although the handle is the same kind of wood and has the same patina as the scabbard, it could be a replacement?  I'm only floating this possibility since often these sword handles have some degree of carved decoration.  In good condition and presented on a custom metal display stand.

CF.  Plate 75 page 343 of "Islands and Ancestors"

Dimensions:   Height 22.25"  (57 cm), Width 2.25"  (5.5 cm)

Price: $3800       Currency Conversion    FREE SHIPPING With (Buy Now) Feature!