Thai/Cambodian machete

Measurements
length: 18"
blade: 11 1/2"
blade width: 1 3/8"
grip and pommel: 5 1/2"
weight: 13.8 oz

Rattan grip, curved blade sharpened on the inside of the curve. Hand forged blade and iron strip securing the blade in the handle. Blade is 3/16" thick at the base, tip looks to have been broken off, but the flat tip may be an intended part of the design. Identification of this piece has caused a bit of a stir among Ethnographic weaponry experts because of some similar cutting implements appearing in Africa, but the rattan grip clearly indicates southeast Asian origination. However, most Thai/Cambodian machetes and other sidearms are usually socketed rather than tanged, so this one's definetly an enigmatic and rare piece.