Golok rembau

Rembau-style golok
golok rembau
A pair of Malaysian style golok rembau.
TypeGolok or machete
Place of originIndonesia (Bengkulu, Jambi, West Sumatra)[1]
Service history
Used byMinangkabau people, Malay people
Specifications
Lengthapproximately 35–47 cm (14–19 in)
Blade typeRecurve with convex edge
Hilt typeWater buffalo horn, wood
Scabbard/sheathWood

A golok rembau is a type of golok in a shape of the tumbok lada, but in a larger version originating from Sumatra, Indonesia. It is also commonly found in Malaysia.[1]

Description

This golok has an angular hilt and a curved blade.[2] A ricasso or finger coil on the blade after the handle is a common design in most Golok Rembau. The blade has a pointy tip with a slight drop point and is approximately 23 to 40 cm (9.1 to 15.7 in) in length. The edge along the blade has a S shape curvature. While most Golok Rembau use a convex edge, some are made with somewhat hollow or flat ground on the edge near the finger coil for small whittling purposes. The scabbard is usually made of wood, however cheap leather sheath can also be found.

Culture

In Asahan Regency, Indonesia, the Golok Rembau is thought to have the magical power to protect its bearer from attack by tigers. Hence sometimes this golok is also referred to as Golok Rimau or Golok Harimau.[3] Because of this belief, men who owned or had been able to borrow the Golok Rembau, exhibited their weapons with complacency and pride.[4]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b Albert G Van Zonneveld (2002). Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago. Koninklyk Instituut Voor Taal Land. ISBN 90-5450-004-2.
  2. ^ Awang Sujai Hairul & Yusoff Khan (1977). Kamus Lengkap, Volume 1. Pustaka Zaman. ISBN 967-918-077-8.
  3. ^ Eugene S. McCartney & Peter Okkelberg (1932). Papers of the Michigan Academy of Science Arts and Letters Volume 16. University of Michigan Press. ASIN B000W8X9N0.
  4. ^ Eliakim Littell & Robert S. Littell (1906). Littell's Living Age, Volume 250. Carl Sandburg Collections.