The kampilan is a single-edged sword, a traditional weapon used by various ethnic groups in the Philippine archipelago. This small Kampilan sword belonged to a member of the Bagobo peoples of southern Mindanao in the Philippines.
The 458mm single-edged blade is of hand forged laminated steel. The blade characteristically widens towards the point and is in great condition for its age and use. The edge is very sharp. The flat spine is detailed at the widest point with three concave semi-circles, the four ridges of which are incised with horizontal lines.
The hilt is typical of the Bagobo, octagonal in cross section, the first half being of intricately decorated brass with a small, stylised octagonal cross guard. The rear section being of carved hardwood flaring towards the gunstock pommel.
The kampilan is complete with its hardwood scabbard. The scabbard is open along one side and is wrapped at the top with hand woven cord. The open edge of the scabbard is pierced on both sides and would originally have had decorative hair or shells attached to it. The bottom of the scabbard has two cylindrical protrusions. One is encased in a cast white metal collar, the other has lost its adornment. It is likely that a third prong was present but has long since been lost. The scabbard is in overall good condition and the blade sheathes and draws smoothly.
This is a rare and authentic Bagobo fighting kampilan from the late 19th or early 20th Century.
