Filipino Bolo Knife with Carved Wood Handle & Sheath – 1945 Inlay View Watchlist >
- Winning Bid: $55.00
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Lot # B492
System ID # 21344134
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Filipino Bolo Knife with Carved Wood Handle & Sheath – 1945 Inlay
Filipino Bolo Knife with Carved Wood Handle & Sheath – 1945 Inlay
This is a Filipino bolo knife with a hand-carved wooden handle and sheath, featuring mother of pearl inlays. The bolo is a traditional tool and weapon in the Philippines, widely used in agriculture and combat. Notably, the year "1945" is inlaid on the handle, marking a historically significant period—the final year of World War II and the liberation of the Philippines from Japanese occupation.
Bolo knives like this were used by Filipino guerrillas and soldiers during the war due to their practicality in both battle and survival. After the war, many such knives were crafted as commemorative pieces or war trophies, often given to American soldiers or Filipino veterans.
The wooden sheath is intricately carved with Filipino cultural motifs, including a Bahay Kubo (native stilt house), an eagle, floral elements, and the word "PHILIPPINES" inlaid in mother of pearl, emphasizing its national pride and heritage.
Key Features:
- Handcrafted wooden handle and sheath with deep relief carvings.
- Mother of pearl inlays on the handle and sheath (some missing).
- Blade length: 22 inches, overall length 30 inches (with sheath).
- Hooked handle design for secure grip.
- Historical significance tied to WWII and the liberation of the Philippines.
Historical Significance (1945):
- End of World War II: 1945 marks the liberation of the Philippines from Japanese occupation, with the return of General Douglas MacArthur and joint Filipino-American forces reclaiming the country.
- Role of the Bolo Knife: Filipino resistance fighters and guerrillas used bolos as weapons due to limited access to firearms. This knife symbolizes the resilience and bravery of Filipino fighters.
- Possible War Souvenir: Many such bolos were crafted after the war as mementos, possibly for American GIs or Filipino veterans as a tribute to their service.
Condition:
- Good overall condition, with signs of use and age-related wear.
- Mother of pearl inlay is absent on the date ("1945"), name, and sunburst design.
- Wood has age-appropriate toning and minor wear.
- Blade shows surface wear and toning, consistent with age.
Size:
30" Long with Sheath
22" Long Blade
