ADITIONAL COMENTARY:

It is obvious that these swords were in fashion a long time ago in an area which was completely impervious to outsiders.

This was because of the colonial cultural system the Dutch imposed on the Preanger regency (1812-1870). And before that there was the Preanger system already from 1720.

The colonial cultural system ensured that the Preanger regency was totally secluded from unwanted contacts with the outside world, to provide a maximum of colonial benefit.

It can be associated with night surveillances, a totally “police” regime, severe corporal punishments etc. etc.

One reason for this cultural system was to be able to keep out armed robbers, thieves and murderers, who were very active and would continue their actions till the very early 1800s (every European without a passport or suspicious natives abiding in the Preanger regency were arrested).

Another reason was to prevent coffee smuggling and keeping out competition.

And a third reason (not the least one) was the fear of the colonial government that the natives would rebel against them because of the oppressive labour regime.

It speaks for itself that, to keep a long story short, this area was totally isolated for a long time

and so were the people who lived here.

As regards Preanger swords, this means they kept the old style a long time as there were no outside influences to change their sword styles.

Furthermore I would like to thank the small group of people (in alphabetical order) who were very helpful and made this research possible.

Arjan Hollestelle

Karel Sirag

Koos van Brakel

Michael Marlow

Paul Vermeiren

Sandra van den Broek

Timothy Rogers