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Originally Posted by T. Koch
Very nice piece - thanks for showing it! I have no input as to origin or age, so I'll sit back, watch and learn. 
Regarding the material for the hilt, judging from the pics, I am not sure that it is ivory - the pores and nature of the cracks indicate some kind of bone. When bone gets very old and handled a lot, it will sometimes obtain a beautiful warm glow like we see here.
If you'd like, try taking a picture from the pommel-end. A pic from this angle might tell more. What is the length of the hilt, 12-14 cm?
Regarding the possibility of dugong ivory, I still haven't seen an example of this material used for a weapon hilt, and will remain highly skeptical of it's stated use in this way, until presented with evidence of the contrary.
Best wishes, - Thor |
Hello Thor,
I am nearly sure that it isn't some sort of bone since there is no porosity in top of the handle.
Still vote for dugong, I have some keris handle from this material. A other possibility is whale tooth. I have to admit that I have problems to differ between this both materials. I have send pictures from the handle in question to a friend of mine who is firm by this materials. Tomorrow I will have answer and will post his opinion at this place.
And soon as I find the time I take pictures from dugong keris handles and post them as well.
Best regards,
Detlef