Lot 184: A SUMATRAN SEWAR DAGGER WITH YELLOW METAL AND SILVER MOUNTS, INDONESIA, 19TH-CENTURY

Sumatra, Indonesia (Minangkabau/Gayo culture). This 19th-century sewar dagger is a high-status sidearm. The hilt is composed of yellow metal, likely gold or suassa (not tested), over a solid core, featuring a characteristic curved pommel and a bulbous central boss. It is densely decorated with fine granulation, filigree, and repoussé foliate scrollwork, and is fitted with a small metal crossguard with scrolling terminals. The straight, single-edged steel blade tapers to a sharp point and features an engraved foliate scroll motif at the base. The scabbard consists of alternating bands of silver and yellow metal, with the yellow metal sections intricately chased with scrolling floral and leaf patterns. It terminates in an upturned chape with a small rounded finial. The iconography is purely foliate and geometric, adhering to the Islamic-influenced artistic traditions of the region.

L: 50cm