Code: IN11
The Pedang Sabet is a slashing weapon. It has a wider blade with a cutting edge and a blunt back. The blade has an even width and is either straight or slightly convex on the cutting edge. This is a very old blade which has been given new “clothes” (grip, guard, scabbard) probably many times since it was originally forged.
Dapur (style): brojol
Tangguh (era) : Majapahit 14th century
Pamor (Surface pattern): ngulit semongko
Pesi (blade): Wide
Total length: 65cm
Weight: 750g
Hulu (hilt): Combination of buffalo horn and silver (old)
Warangka (Sheath): Sonokeling/Sanakeling wood (Dalbergia Latifolia)
The word “pedang” simply means “sword” in Malay, and it principally describes a blade weapon used for cutting and thrusting. Traditional Javanese Pedang, such as this one, are often passed from generation to generation as family heirlooms (pusaka).
There are two forms of the Pedang: The Pedang Suduk and the Pedang Sabet. This sword is a Pedang Sabet and is distinguished by a blade sharpened only on one side. The blade (pesi) of the sword is wide.
The other form, Pedang Suduk (“Sundhuk”) typically has three areas sharpened (one side, the tip, and some or all of the other side). The Pedang Suduk was a weapon of the warriors of the central Java courts. See other entries for descriptions of my several Pedang Suduk.
Majapahit (1292 to early 16th century)
This kingdom was situated in East Java with its center near today's Mojokorto, South East of Surabaya. It was the first powerful Javanese kingdom that practiced a syncretism form of Hinduism and Buddhism and also introduced Islam through its mercantile activities with Arabic traders. Its influence was over Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Maluku and some of the south east Asia coasts. The second powerful archipelago kingdom after Sriwijaya. Majapahit is considered the true ancestor to modern Indonesia.