The Kris or Keris is the traditional heirloom weapon of the various cultures of Indonesia. Each of the Kris using cultures has a slight variation of this weapon. They are a powerful talisman and a symbol of a man’s status in society as well as being a weapon. Kris blades are made using alternating laminations of iron and nickel rich iron (pamor) to give them their characteristic pattern. The blades are wide at the base, double-edged, and often wavy although most, older Kris have straight blades.
This finely made 19th Century Balinese Kris has a heavy, 450mm double-edged straight blade. The hollow ground blade has a pronounced medial ridge running down to the point. The last 80mm of the blade are thickened to aid penetration. This is sometimes referred to as an “armour piercing point.” The pamor layering of the high-quality blade can be clearly seen. The blade is in good clean condition and is very sharp.
The Gahary (dark reddish-brown hardwood) hilt is in good condition with a great patina. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The Kris is complete with its hardwood scabbard which is in good condition. The blade sheathes and draws smoothly.
This is an excellent example of a 19th Century Balinese Kris.
