Parang Latok (which is also known as Latok, Latok Buku or Parang Pathi) is a sword from Kalimantan (Borneo), Indonesia, that also functions as a machete. It is used for both timber felling, agricultural activities and warfare. It is characterized by the noticeable bent at an obtuse angle from one-third of its length starting from the pommel. In the past, the Parang Latok was also used for executing condemned criminals, and the decapitation is normally achieved with a single blow. The parang is used two-handedly, with one hand holding the hilt and the other holding the blade's shoulder, enabling its user to strike downwards. Here is a quite beautiful specimen, probably made by the end of 19th century. The Parang features a single-edge blade that is heavier and wider towards the point of the blade which has two holes. The handle of the Parang Latok is made of carved bone without a guard and it is attached securely to the blade with nicely chiseled silver bands. No scabbard.
Condition: very good. Clean blade with some darker spots and one rust spot on the spine by the hilt. Beautiful bone handle, showing age but with no chips. Excellent chiseled silver on the grip. (Ref. Albert G Van Zonneveld, Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago)
