The MANDAU (sometimes also called “Parang Ihlang”) is the traditional sword of the Dayak tribes of Borneo. It was primarily associated with the Head Hunting tradition of the Dayaks 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 a late 19th C vintage with a 19 1/2 inches blade with brass inserts along the spine side of the blade. The handle is “L” shaped, carved from bone and bound with braided rattan. Black and white tufts of hair are inserted at the pommel side. Wood scabbard, partially carved and bound with rattan bands. Total length 26 inches. Very good condition. The Rattan binding of the scabbard is later. An age crack on the handle.