Code: PP12
This is a Talibon from the Philippines, a type of parang. The blade is 7 1/2 inches and including the hilt the knife is 11 1/2 inches long. The blade is concave along the spine with an upswept tip, a somewhat unusual form as the spines of talibon blades are typically straight while the shape shows the characteristic "big belly".
The curving "Sea Horse" hilt with knuckle guard is the most unusual part of this knife. This strongly curved design was seen in the northern Philippines during the latter part of the Spanish era. The hilt protects the fingers from being cut in an encounter a deadly opponent. While not uncommon, this shape is hilt is far less typical than many others.
The hilt and scabbard are made of a hardwood and decorated with carved geometric designs. The scabbard is in two pieces, having lost the rattan binding to hold it together.
Talibons vary in length and in style of hilt. Blades have a beveled cutting edge on one side only. The ends of the scabbards are often upturned, as in this example.