The MANDAU (sometimes also called “Parang Ihlang”) is the traditional sword of the Dyak tribes of Borneo. It was primarily associated with the Head Hunting tradition of the Dyaks but also used as a general-purpose jungle knife. It has a slightly curved single edge blade with a convex / concave cross section, allowing efficient strikes only along a circular line from top down. It is a fearsome and very efficient weapon in the experienced hand, and was really used for head hunting. This specific item is 19th Century; it has a 22 inch blade, filed chiseled and engraved with classical design. The pommel is of the “L” shape carved from bone in a beautiful and intricate design and bound with braided rattan. This piece comes with its original scabbard in wood, partially carved and bound with rattan strips. Total length 28 inches. Very good condition. Minor edge nicks. Small chips on the scabbard rear side and damage to the rattan binding.