PH830: Northern Barong Sword

This is an unusual variation of a Northern Philippine sword that I have not seen before. The blade is a Barong shape so I call it a Northern Barong. The animal form handle is reminiscent of Bicol style, so it may come from the Bicol area. The handle is horn with woven rattan bands, and a brass sleeve. The tang goes all the way through the handle and has a bronze stopper on the end. The blade is thin, but well forged with a slight pattern showing.     

24 inches overall with a 19 inch blade that is ¼ inch thick at the back edge. 19th century Luzon, Northern Philippines.