Hanger with klewang blade, Dutch (c 1895)

Title	Hanger with klewang blade
Nationality	Dutch
Period	c 1895

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MAGNIFY

This is a European copy of the klewang, a native weapon carried in the East Indies, which was largely under Dutch control from the late 16th century. Hembrug, a Dutch arsenal, is stamped on the forte of the blade and there is a cypher on the crossguard and forte, looking like a B under a crown. There is also a mark on the scabbard throat.

This was apparently issued from 1895 to the Dutch marines for service in the East Indies. This could explain the B/crown stamp, possibly for Batavia, the historic name for the Dutch East Indies. The scabbards were normally leather with iron mounts, but this may have been an experimental variant or some such.

The blade is 36cm long and has most its original blue finish, with some wear marks where the scabbard springs have polished some of this off on both sides. A supremely practical weapon/tool, but the weapon factor is emphasised by the presence of a crossguard, something you never find on a simple machete.

The grips would appear to be made of stained beech wood with three brass rivets holding each plate in place. There is some old damage to the back of the grip from the hilt of the weapon being used as a hammer. The iron scabbard has a thick lacquer/enamel finish.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.

[Edged Weapons : Dirks : Dutch : 19th Century]

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