Antique Indonesian Golok Machete with Wooden Grip and Scabbard

Here on offer is what I believe to be an antique Indonesian Golok machete with a carved wooden handle and scabbard.

A Golok is a cutting tool, similar to a machete, that comes in many variations and is found throughout the Malay Archipelago.

Given the carved decoration on the scabbard, I believe this is the type that would have been worn for self-protection.

In Indonesia, the Golok is often associated with the Betawi and neighbouring Sudanese people. The Betawi recognize two types of Golok is the domestic tool used in the kitchen or field for agricultural purposes, and the Golok simpenan or sorenam that is used for self-protection and traditionally always carried by Betawi men.

The Golok is a symbol of masculinity and bravery in Betawi culture. A jawara (local strongman or village champion) will always have a Golok hung or tied around the waist at the hips. This custom, however, has ceased to exist since the 1970s, when authorities would apprehend those that carry the Golok publicly and have it confiscated it in order to uphold security, law and order, and to reduce gang fighting.

This example has a large and heavy hand made carbon steel blade. The single blade edge still retains a sharp edge and it is stamped on one side with what is possibly a maker’s mark:

A8

The smooth grip has been carved from a single piece of light wood. The ferrell seems to be a lacquered brass ring.

The scabbard seems to be made from the same light-coloured wood and has a carved top and there is a small shaped raised section on the front, that has a hole running through it. This may have originally held a leather cord for decoration or some form of belt suspension?

On the front lower section there seems to be some carved lettering or symbols set into it, but I can’t make out what they are? It seems to have some old repairs to cracks in the wood but it is currently in sound condition.

The blade measures approximately 10.7” (27cm) long and the knife is 15.75” (40cm) in total length.

With the scabbard, it weighs a heavy 585g.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

Code: 51029