The ‘siwah’ a downward curving slashing dagger popular through much of Sumatra was relatively uncommon in Aceh where the more common 'rencong' was the preferred weapon. This example has rich gold embellishments which would have restricted its use to persons of very high rank. It also features some rare materials such as ivory and black coral which mark it as an item of significance. Another feature that showed evidence of royal provenance are the five stacked rows of triangular ‘pucuk rebung’ or bamboo shoot motif at the base of the hilt.Aceh was an important independent sultanate in island Southeast Asia prior to the coming of the Dutch. Substantial trade and wealth passed through the state and the aristocracy displayed their status with the use of fine objects and accessories including weapons.
