*Philippines, c.1880–1900 – Moro Budjak (Budiak/Budiar) Spear, With Scabbard*
A substantial long-shafted Southeast Asian spear, attributed to the southern Philippines (Moro regions of Mindanao / Sulu), complete with its matching wooden scabbard. The spear measures approximately 238.5 cm overall, mounted on a plain hardwood pole of slender, consistent section. The iron spearhead is of leaf form with pronounced multi-ribbed central moulding, measuring approximately 30 cm, and is seated into the haft above a reinforced binding.
Immediately behind the head the haft retains a braided / woven rattan grip section, providing both strengthening and improved purchase for handling close to the blade, and tied with red cord finished with small tassels. The spear is accompanied by its original wooden scabbard, carved from a single piece and secured with rattan binding, allowing the head to be sheathed for storage and transport — a characteristic feature seen on Philippine/Moro polearms.
At the opposite end the haft is finished with a faceted decorated terminal / ferrule fitted with an iron suspension loop, intended for hanging or securing rather than as a hand grip.
Historical Note:
Long polearms of this type were used across island Southeast Asia, and in the southern Philippines spears remained an important fighting and status weapon into the late 19th and early 20th centuries, spanning the final decades of Spanish rule and the early American period. The combination of a long plain haft, reinforced grip area near the socket, and a separate wooden scabbard for the head is consistent with traditional regional manufacture.
*Condition*
In good, honest condition with clear age and use. The blade shows patination and scattered surface corrosion, with no obvious modern reshaping. The haft is solid with handling marks and wear. The braided grip and cordwork remain present, though aged and softened, with fraying to cord/tassels as expected. The wooden scabbard is intact with wear, shrinkage, loose wrap work and small edge losses commensurate with age. The butt-end terminal and iron suspension loop show oxidation and wear. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMAOOXBEO_3566222892
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