Southeast Asia, Indonesia, ca. early 20th century CE. A remarkable forged-steel ceremonial sword called a kris (also keris) with a nickel silver (brass containing nickel) and wood sheath. The elegant weapon features a carved wooden handle exhibiting a pair of abstract anthropomorphic maskettes along the interior curve and an undulating forged-steel blade. The base of the blade is beautifully decorated on each side with a gilt dragon featuring a sinuous tail that travels up the blade, its serpentine form mimicking that of the blade, while a gilt vegetal motif adorns the underside of the blade, just above a petite iron spacer w/ 4 tiers of decorative motifs. The forged-steel blade features a gently oscillating profile with a narrow hand guard as well as ribbons of lighter nickel along the spine. Dense floral motifs in repousse adorn one side of the nickel silver sheath jacket, which features a dramatically flared wooden guard protector. Size (in sheath): 5.75" W x 18.75" H (14.6 cm x 47.6 cm); Size (of blade): 13.7" H (34.8 cm); Quality of gilding: 60% (equivalent to over 14 karat)

Provenance: private Rochester, Michigan, USA collection

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#149502

Minor nicks to blade and blade housing, as well as light scratches to guard protector. Great patina on blade and sheath.