Keris Barcelona

[Tim Simmons]

One keris on show in Barcelona world museum. Looks kind of okay-ish to me.

[David]

It's hard to judge too much about this keris based upon these photos Tim, but the hilt is nothing to write home about. A fairly contemporary and primitive example of that hilt form as far as i can tell. I could be wrong, but the blade looks like it could be a Javanese keris singo with a bit of kanatah added. I can't tell if it is a particularly good or old example. If so the blade seems mis-dressed.

[kai]

Originally Posted by David

the hilt is nothing to write home about. A fairly contemporary and primitive example of that hilt form as far as i can tell.

I agree with David's understatement...

Despite Barcelona's emphasis on more recent art, exhibiting this piece as a (single?) keris example in any museum seems ill-advised.

Regards,
Kai

[A. G. Maisey]

Hilt made in Jogja, blade not Balinese, might be Jawa, might be Madura.

[David]

Originally Posted by A. G. Maisey

Hilt made in Jogja, blade not Balinese, might be Jawa, might be Madura.

Hi Alan. I understand that these hilts were made for a time in Jawa for a Balinese market. What about this sheath. The photos aren't great, but the pattern on the pendok looks more Javanese than Balinese to my eye. And the shape and flow of the sheath (which i assume is ivory???) looks a bit off. Could this entire ensemble originate in Jawa?

[asomotif]

Here is the blade in upright position.

The complete keris in its combination is not a museum worthy example imo.