19th C. Indonesian Iron Kris w/ Garuda Grip
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19th C. Indonesian Iron Kris w/ Garuda Grip

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Southeast Asia, Indonesia, ca. 19th century CE. A strong example of a kris (or keris), a traditional Indonesian sword. This kris has a wooden sheath with a broad upper portion that mirrors the form of the blade; the sheath is made of highly-polished caramel-and-toffee-hued hard wood. The handle is separated from the blade as a whole by a form-fitting bronze guard with a wavy form. The handle itself has the form of an abstract avian figure, possibly a mythical Garuda bird as is a common theme in Indonesian art. The folded iron blade is equally dramatic and beautiful, and its straight tapered form is less common than its serpentine counterparts. A quintessential example of an Indonesian kris, replete with fine artistry and technique. Size with sheath: 18.375″ L (46.7 cm); length of blade: 14.75″ L (37.5 cm).

Condition: Surface wear commensurate with age and handling, and minor chips and nick to and deposits on blade. Handle and sheath have light patina.

Provenance: private Rochester, Michigan, USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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