Javanese keris Dagger, are some of the most highly variegated objects in the world of arms and armor.Despite maintaining a distinct overall form and shape, the variation, in particular of the style ofblades is greater than any other arms and armor culture. The most classic style of hilt is from theRoyal Palaces of Surakarta in central Java and called a cecekan hilt in the Yudo Winatan style.This hilt has seven flat planar sides, with two carvings at internal angles of the hilt. The onenearest the pommel represents the kala mask, a benevolent demon and the small protrusion in thecarving called a kuncung represents a nose. Other forms of hilt from Java include rare form thatrepresent Wayang figures with elongated noses and exaggerated features. While other forms inNorthwest Java approximate veiled durga forms from southern Sumatra. Some hilts displaysyncretic influences across cultures with features of multiple regions in one hilt, representing theskills and origin of the carver or the interests of the commissioner of the keris. As each kerishas its own spirit, reflected by the blade shape and its individual pamor. It was consideredimportant for a prospective owner to acquire a keris whose spiritual persona was compatible withhis own. The choice of hilt was generally an aesthetic choice but would often be done inalignment with the type of blade and pamor. Keris, as spiritual objects, were believed tointervene supernaturally in the lives of their owners and could help keep disease away, ease thepain of childbirth, prevent quarrels, ensure victory in battle, extinguish fires and deter attacks bywild animals. As a result many family keris, were considered pusaka, or treasured familyheirlooms. Because keris were so often calibrated to the owner's particular personality, a kerisowned by a person without the right temperament or personality could create misfortune anddisorder for the owners and others around him.This example in the Schmiedt collection is an interesting example with a hilt that has elements ofa Wayang visage but with the veiled durga form with an angular smooth shape found on southernSumatran hilts. The 13 luk blade of dapor nagasastra form with a naga carved into the gandikand the tail chiseled into the blade running towards to the tip. The pamor is indiscernible. Themendak (cuff) between hilt and blade in Javan style and in chiseled silver and inlaid withdiamonds or paste stones. The warangka (scabbard throat) of Ladrang style in the Madura Irasform and with a rich chatoyancy, or wood lustre. The pendok now in tarnished silver over awooden gandar (body) and with a chape at the foot of the gandar that represents a Dutch colonialinfluence. The overall composition potentially late Dutch colonial period.Early to mid-20th century, rare and unusual example.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 20 1/4" Blade Length : 15 3/4"References:1. Frey, E. (1988) The Kris: Mystic Weapon of the Malay World. Oxford University Press.2. Mardianto, W. A to Z â€â€œ Sesuatu mengenai KERIS dan TOMBAK KERIS â€â€œ SENJATATRADISIONAL INDONESIA A to Z3. Ki Empu Jhuel. Pamor Keris4. Ghiringelli. V. (2007) The Invincible Krises 2. Saviolo Publisher5. Van Zonneveld, A.G. (2001) Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago.Leiden: Art Books6. Gardner, G.B. (2009) Keris and other Malay Weapons. Orchid Press7. Maisey, A. Dhapur and pamor according to Djeno Harumbrojo, Jogjakarta.Kerisattosanaji8. Marval, G.de. (1994) UKIRAN - Essai de classification des poignées de kris de l'archipelindonésienDetailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com