Product Description

Antique Balinese Cock Fighting Spur Container 2             SOLD

Material: Wood
Style:  Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia
Size: Height 21.5 cm, Width 9.5 cm, Depth 3 cm
Order Number: MHSABCFSC2

Called kotak taji, this is a small box in which razor sharp double-bladed steel spurs (taji), about 10 centimetres long,  used for a cockfight, are kept and handed down from one generation to the next. The spur should be forged during a new moon and preferably during a violent thunderstorm.  There are lots of superstitions, many of which are contained in the old palm leaf lontar books. The spur is tied on to the cock’s leg.

There was cockfighting in China in the 6th century BC. It also took place in India, Persia and Ancient Rome and in more modern times Denmark and Spain and among royalty and aristocrats in England. It was also enjoyed in the United States, Latin America and Cuba. It’s been outlawed under cruelty against animal legislation in these countries.

Centuries ago cockfighting – and gambling – were compulsory in Indonesia – and taxed. Cockfighting has been now banned by law throughout Indonesia, although it still takes place. Bali was the last island to ban it in 1981, but 3 bouts are allowed for purification purposes during a Balinese religious ceremony.  There is no need to make more spur boxes and the art will die out.

Offerings called caru,  including part of an animal, often chickens, are placed on the ground to appease bad spirits and avoid harm. Fresh blood spit on the ground from rounds of paired  roosters during cockfighting (tajen) is within this category as it delights evil demons.

It is a favourite sport for Balinese men and gambling is a big attraction.

More information about Cockfights here: https://www.murnis.com/culture/balinese-cockfights/ and in our book Secrets of Bali.

About 80-90 years old.

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