Indonesia · Metalwork / Bladesmithing
Pembuatan Mandau
The Mandau is the traditional long-bladed weapon of the Dayak peoples of Kalimantan — a single-edged slashing blade 50–70cm long with a characteristic gentle curve, made from iron or steel, with a handle of carved deer antler or hornbill casque and a scabbard of carved wood decorated with hair tassels. Like the Keris (CRAFT-0137) and Rencong (CRAFT-0155), the Mandau is both weapon and spiritual object — specific Mandau are believed to have protective spiritual power (samengat) that makes them effective in battle and dangerous to the wrong owner. The blade-making tradition (pandai besi Dayak) is practiced by specialist Dayak blacksmiths, distinct from the carving and decoration of handle and scabbard which may be done by a different specialist. The tradition is concentrated in the interior Dayak communities of West and Central Kalimantan.
Risk level: Critically Endangered · Not inscribed
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