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 an old early to mid 19th Century; 20 1/2 inch blade, fullered and engraved. The pommel is of the “L” shape. It is carved from stag horn in a beautiful and intricate design, bound with braided fibers and set with colored hair tufts. This piece comes with its original scabbard in carved wood bound with rattan strips, also set with colored hair tufts. Also, the scabbard has its original belt made from braided rattan and the original shell button. Total length 28 inch (in scabbard). Very good condition. The blade has maintained a nice age patina The fabric covering the compartment for the small knife is worn. Altogether an original authentic piece for real use.