Product Description

Balinese Kris 8                                        SOLD

Material: Iron, nickel and steel blade, silver oversheath, wood, precious stones
Style: Bali, Indonesia
Size: Length  46.5 cm, Width 14 cm
Order Number: BK8

The kris is a dagger. The blade broadens towards the hilt, where one part protrudes more than the other. The blade may be straight or wavy – this one is wavy. The straight one symbolises the mythical snake, naga, at rest and the wavy one its movements.

The Balinese kris has a character of its own. The average Balinese kris is longer and heavier than others. The blade is made of iron, nickel and steel and the line of the blade is tight.

The whole back is encased with a silver oversheath, parts of which are intricately engraved. The silver top and bottom are also engraved.

Apart from being a weapon, a kris is endowed with magical powers. It can protect and bring prosperity to its owner. It plays an important part in Balinese wedding ceremonies and is worn on formal occasions.

Offerings are presented and prayers are said during the making of a kris on auspicious days. It is treated with care and respect. When it is not worn, it is presented with offerings and sprinkled with holy water every 210 days on Tumpek Landep.

The silver shaft ring located between the hilt and the blade is inlaid with precious stones stressing the elevated status of the owner.

Early 21st century.

Examples are shown in Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago, Albert G. Van Zonneveld, C. Zwartenkot Art Books, 2001 at pages 64-68.

Please ask for the price (or make an offer).