Pattani Tajong Keris Silver Handle

In the Pattani region of southern Thailand and the border region with Kelantan in northern Malaysia, we find a very unique type of keris handle called "Tajong" or "Pekaka". These types of keris are mostly called "Pattani keris" or "Kingfisher keris", the latter actually being erroneously adopted due to its similarities in appearance with the kingfisher, but it actually depicts an angry demonic figure of Wajang. The handles appear to originate from ancient Hinduism, such as Vishnu and Garuda, but changed aesthetically under Islamic influence. Handles vary over time, 17th century "tajong" handles have very long muzzles, while late 18th and early 19th century examples, like our example here, have elegant shortened muzzles and decorative elements throughout. handle, like swirls of foliage, a crown-shaped floret and a mouth full of teeth. Later examples from the late 19th and 20th centuries and beyond feature very elaborate floral designs and very distinctive muzzles with a strongly curved tip, often plated with silver or suasa. This example is made up of a wooden core, finished with a very thin layer of embossed silver. A technique often seen on the handles of Malaysian keris, like our example here sold in 2022 or like the famous counterpart of the “Tajong”, the “Coteng”. “Tajong” keris of this quality are attributed to warriors of the royal courts and are rarely seen in today's art market.

Condition Excellent maintained condition, comes on a gray marble stand.
Dimensions
Length: 14.5cm
Height: 10.4cm
Weight 142g (excluding stand)