Blakas

Blakas or Belakas is a general name for any sort of cleaver or large knife originating from Bali, Indonesia that has a heavy rectangular blade with a straight cutting edge used for chopping.[1] Their long, round hilts become somewhat thinner to one or both ends. The blade usually has fanciful shape and encrusted motifs.[2] Sometimes it is made for ceremonial purposes, and also used in pairs with golok.[3] It is common for almost every Balinese household to own a Blakas because the blade is in everyday use for kitchen chores, in the orchards, and in ceremonial activities.

Blakas
A Balinese Blakas, pre-1944.
TypeChopper, Cleaver, Ceremonial Knife
Place of originIndonesia (Bali)
Service history
Used byBalinese people
Specifications
Blade typeSingle edge, chisel grind
Hilt typeWater buffalo horn, wood
Scabbard/sheathWood

See also

References

  1. Fred B. Eiseman (2008). Traditional Balinese Tools In The Jimbaran Area, South Bali (Prabot Bali Tatamian). Fred B. Eiseman. ASIN B007HG4ZN8.
  2. Albert G Van Zonneveld (2002). Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago. Koninklyk Instituut Voor Taal Land. ISBN 90-5450-004-2.
  3. S. Ann Dunham (2009). Surviving Against The Odds: Village Industry in Indonesia. Duke University Press. ISBN 0-8223-4687-7.


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