Description:

Southeast Asia, Indonesia, ca. mid 20th century CE. A carbon steel, sinuously curved kris blade with a dark, highly polished wooden handle with two masks carved into its side. Around the guard are a dozen inlaid tiny clear glass beads. The sheath is made of light, highly polished wood. The surface of the blade is covered in raised Koranic text, an interesting twist on the standard kris decorative form. Size: 7.25" W x 18" H (18.4 cm x 45.7 cm)

The kris is both a weapon and a spiritual object. The oldest known are from the 10th century CE; they are thought to have originated on the island of Java. The bladesmith, called an empu, formed 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 were worn every day and in special ceremonies; both men and women wear them. They were passed down through families. They were used for display, as talismans with magical powers, and weapons, and as heirlooms, as accessories for ceremonial dress, and indicators of social status.

Provenance: private Rochester, Michigan, USA collection

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#137983

  • Condition: Excellent condition.

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February 6, 2019 7:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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