Lot 125
**First Time At Auction**
Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Bali, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. This is a superb kris sword with high quality silver- 98%, and precious stone inlaid on the handle and sheath! The hand-carved wooden handle depicts a mythical being, Barong, with wild eyes and bared teeth- lavishly adorned with silver clothing and colorful stone cabochons- rubies and sapphires - some with chatoyancy (cats eye reflection)! The handle is set into a hemispherical guard just above a silver spacer ring. The forged-iron blade known as wootz or watered steel has ribbons of lighter nickel hammered into the serpentine blade. The two-part wooden sheath has a prominently projecting guard protector for the blade, and the rest of the wood sheath is encased in the silver jacket, ornate repousse floral and scrolling motifs, 5 cabochon rubies and sapphires set into one side. Size in sheath: 24.5" L x 6.75" W (62.2 cm x 17.1 cm); blade: 14.75" L x 3" W (37.5 cm x 7.6 cm); silver quality: 98%
The kris is both a weapon and a spiritual object. The oldest known are from the 10th century CE, when they are thought to have originated on the island of Java. The bladesmith, called an empu, forms the blade from layers of different iron ores and meteorite nickel. In high quality ones, the metal is folded dozens or even hundreds of times. Kris are worn every day and in special ceremonies; both men and women wear them. They were passed down through families to use as display pieces, talismans with magical powers, weapons, heirlooms, accessories for ceremonial dress, and indicators of social status - this one that was owned by someone of wealth and means. The Barong is a lion-like creature that is king of the spirits and leader of the hosts of the good in Balinese mythology. Barong Ket, also known as Basnapati Rajah, is sometimes described as a combination of a lion and a tiger. He is the most important protector spirit and the keeper of White Magic, whose eternal enemy is Rangda. These two entities embody the universal balance between the Good and the Bad in Balinese mythology.
Provenance: private New Haven, Connecticut, USA collection
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#176165
- Condition: Fair to good condition. Barong handle comes completely off from the bejeweled guard, and the silver spacer above the blade is slightly loose. Russet patina on blade and nicks. Wood guard on sheath is completely loose and not attached. Some indentations and bending and minor loose areas along silver jacket sea, otherwise sheath jacket is excellent with dark toning and patina. We recommend reattaching the loose pieces before displaying.
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| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |