Paiwan Knife Known As “takits” With Brass Inlays Taiwan, 19th Century

PAÏWAN KNIFE KNOWN AS “TAKITS” WITH BRASS TRIM
Taiwan, 19th century
Steel, wood
Total length: 54 cm (with sheath) - Blade length: 35.5 cm

Straight, single-edged blade. Tapered wooden handle, covered with openwork brass; a domed, fluted ferrule.
Asymmetrical wooden scabbard, covered on the front with a sheet of brass, featuring repoussé decoration depicting ten figures symbolizing protective ancestors. The back is made of wood painted red; the wooden protrusion is covered on one side with a sheet of brass featuring four figures in a row.

A bladed weapon and a traditional tool emblematic of the Paiwan people, an indigenous ethnic group in southern Taiwan. It serves as a defensive weapon, a hunting tool, and a social marker, and occupies a central place in traditional culture.

In good original condition.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON

Ref.: 7409