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 early 20th Century; it has a 20 inch blade Chiseled with scrolls at the spine. The pommel is of the “L” shape. It is carved from wood in a beautiful and intricate floral design (see details below) and bound with braided steel wires. The hilt is set with tufts of black hair (human???). This piece comes with its original scabbard in wood, partially carved and bound with red rattan strips. Total length 27 inch (in scabbard). The condition is very good. The blade is clean and was not re-sharpened. Altogether an original authentic piece for real use.