These
are traditional Torajan swords
called Parangs. Shorter versions are used
in the ceremonial sacrifice of water buffalos
at Torajan funerals.
Check
back soon for a personal account of Torajan funeral ceremonies.
traditional Torajan grain houses
A rare blue-eyed water buffalo
at a
funeral ceremony 11/23/01
Cockatoo Parang
item # k001
Dragon Parang
item # k002
These Parangs
are approximately 24 inches long in total length and the steel
blade is approximately 16 inches long. As each of these is hand-made,
each is unique and varies slightly. The handle of the blade is
carved water buffalo horn. The wooden scabbard features traditional
Torajan designs and woven rattan bindings.
All
photographs on this web site are by Gail J. Worth (unless otherwise
noted) and are copyrighted. They may not be reproduced by any
method without written permission.