Keris Or Kriss Knife Malaysia, Southeast Asia.

Keris or Kriss knife
Malaysia, Southeast Asia
20th century
Wood, iron and metal
Total length 50 cm; Scabbard length: 40.5 cm
Blade length: 36 cm; Handle length: 9 cm

The handle, called ukiran, is made of silver-plated and gilded metal, in the shape of a crook and incised with foliage. The upper part of the scabbard, called the wrangka, is made of wood with a shiny patina, ending in two tapering side lugs. The section forming the body of the scabbard, called the gandar, is made of oval-section wood entirely covered in gilded metal with repoussé decoration.
The double-edged blade is straight; a naga is embedded in the forge, with its head protruding upwards; it holds a gilded pearl in its mouth. A cut-out metal ring, called a mendak, marks the junction between the ukiran and the blade.

The kris is a masculine weapon. A marker of social status and wealth, it was also the symbolic object given to a young boy who had become a man.
The more elaborate the blade and the more noble the handle, the higher the rank of the owner.
The ukiran, almost always anthropomorphically carved, is considered an allegory of its owner. Thus, the head would be the handle, the body the blade and the garment the scabbard. It's worth noting that the Balinese man's traditional garment is the sarong - the same name given to the kriss scabbard.

Endowed with magical powers, the kriss is considered a vehicle of spirituality. It is transmitted by inheritance, which enables it to increase its power.

Very good condition.

Ref : 4784

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON