19th Century Malay Blunderbuss

One of our readers sent us this photo of a Permuras Aceh (Malay/Aceh Style Blunderbuss) from the 19th century. Looks like those things could be a loaded with a lot of shot (or stones or whatever else was available). I also like the interesting mix of weapons in the photo. There is a revolver, two blunderbusses, a small metal shield and a spear.

Blunderbuss continue to be ceremonial weapons in this part of the world. A short barreled blunderbuss called the Pemuras and its bullet carrier, named the Karga, are part of the royal regalia of Brunei. The Panglima Raja carries the Pemuras on his right shoulder and the Karga is strapped to his left side.