The straightforward kinatah thread

[David]

Originally Posted by A. G. Maisey

In strict terms the only material used for kinatah must be gold.

Is there another term to be used when the ornamentation is silver instead of gold?

[A. G. Maisey]

Not to my knowledge, David.

However, old, genuine, traditional kinatah is not ever found in silver --- or brass either for that matter.

Gold is the metal of honour, not silver.

In keris thought, kinatah refers to gold work.

[David]

Originally Posted by A. G. Maisey

Not to my knowledge, David.

However, old, genuine, traditional kinatah is not ever found in silver --- or brass either for that matter.

Gold is the metal of honour, not silver.

In keris thought, kinatah refers to gold work.

I made this inquiry because i have an old Madura patrem that i received from you some time ago that has blade ornamentation placed on the gandik and on the top of the gonjo in the manner of kinatah that is done in silver. It was my understanding that this was old and genuine work.

[A. G. Maisey]

If it is a patrem it automatically falls outside the parameters that we apply to the male keris, further, it may be that originally this silver was plated with gold.