Short sword - Kris/keris - Java - Keris with richly decorated pendok - late 19th century - Indonesia

Exceptionally fine Javanese keris (kris), featuring a characteristic wavy blade and a richly decorated wooden sheath. The whole piece is an attractive and decorative example of the traditional Javanese keris culture.

The blade is crafted with multiple elegant ripples (luk) and shows a lively, irregular surface that is characteristic of traditionally forged keris blades. The shape and finish give the weapon a powerful and sculptural character.

The sheath (warangka) is made of beautifully figured and polished wood and has a pronounced curved, organic shape. The wooden parts are carefully shaped and polished and equipped with subtle decorative elements. The long lower portion of the sheath is clad with a richly decorated gold-colored metal pendok, which runs nearly the full length and features finely worked floral and stylized ornaments.

The wooden grip (ukiran) is also beautifully crafted. The curved handle has an elegant, distinctive form and is fitted with small decorative metal appliqués bearing stylized motifs. The combination of warm wood, the richly decorated metal, and the contrasting blade makes this keris a particularly decorative whole.

The keris holds an important place in traditional Javanese culture and is regarded not only as a weapon but also as an object with strong symbolic and spiritual meaning. Kerises were traditionally worn as part of clothing and could also play an important role at ceremonial and social occasions.

Details

Origin: Java, Indonesia
Type: Keris / Kris
Material: forged metal, wood, and metal
Blade: wavy (luk), with a characteristic forged surface
Sheath: wooden warangka with richly decorated metal pendok
Handle: carved and polished wood with decorative metal appliqués
Length: [measure to fill]

Condition:
Good antique condition, with normal signs of aging and use. The wood shows appropriate wear, small superficial damages and patination. The metal parts show a few dents, discoloration and wear of the original finish. The blade has an old, wear-and-age formed surface. See the photos for a good impression of the state. Free shipping:

Free shipping:
International shipping with Track & Trace.
It will be packed very securely, please don’t worry!