+Philippines 19th Century Panabas Iron Sword With Carved Wood And Rattan Handle

Panabas short sword from the Philippines. 

A rare late 18th early 19th century Panabas short sword from the Mindanao, Malabang and the Moro cultures in Lanao Del Sur, the southern part of the Philippines islands. It is composed by a medium forged iron blade and a hand carved hardwood handle, decorated with tribal patterns. The wood handle is attached and embellished with embroiders of bamboo wood and rattan cane.

Panabas 

The panabas is also know as nawi, a large forward-curved sword or battle ax used by certain ethnic groups in the southern Philippines islands. It can range in size from 24 to 48 inches and can be held with one or both hands, delivering a deep, meat clever-like cut. In its heyday, it was used as a combat weapon, as an execution or mutilation tool, and as a display of power. Occasional use as an agricultural and butchering tool has also been noted. But this specific shaped type of sword has a notorious reputation as it was usually used for beheading. The sword's name is a shortening of the word pang-tabas, which means "chopping tool". as such, its etymological origins are the root word tabas "to chop off" and the prefix pang, "used for".

Materials: Forged iron, carved wood and rattan stripes.

Measures: Lenght of 24.5 Inches and 4.5 Inches at the widest point.

Condition: The overall condition of this piece is excellent. Beside the little normal wear, there is no damage to the wood. All parts are secured in the settings. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.

INVENTORY REF: D092823SEMH/.5623