The Balato is the traditional sword of the people residing in the Nias island, South West of Sumatra. These are considered quite scarce. The sword offered here for sale is a mid 20 C. sword, authentic and made for dancing ceremonies ( Not for sale to tourists) A 20 ½ inches long blade with a Wood handle, beautifully and very elaborately carved in the shape of a mythical monster head and with a brass collar. The scabbard is wood bound with brass bands. The most interesting part of these swords is the rattan braided ball entirely covered with boar teeth. This ball was used to hold talisman for good luck and victories of the sword bearer. Total length (in scabbard) 28 inches. Very good condition . Minor damages to the boar teeth. For similar swords, see A Zonneveld, Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago page 29