New keris I picked up. I know nothing about them. Help!

[David]

Originally Posted by Jean

I would estimate that the hilt & sheath are about 50 years old as there is no visible patina but the integral mendak is not common nowadays, and this is consistent with the purchasing date stated by the seller (50's to 60's) if he can be trusted.
Regarding the blade with pamor kelengan (not apparent), it could have been made at the same time or earlier (but probably not before 20th century), I don't know but agree that it looks elegant and well made.
Other opinions are welcome.
Regards

Jean, what specifically about this blade puts it clearly in the 20th century for you.

[A. G. Maisey]

I had intended to stay out of this discussion, for a number of reasons that do not bear airing here, however, in my opinion this keris (blade only) dates from the period 1850 to 1940, it is probably East Javanese, the dress is the product of a rather unskilled maker, there are no kraton influences, the hilt is incorrect for the wrongko as the integral mendak is a form usually associated with sandang walikat, and the overall kagok form of the hilt gives the impression that the maker has seen the Jogja form of this hilt and then tried give it size to which this form is not suited.

I am uncertain from the photos whether the blade has a slorok, or not, and this does have a bearing on appraisal of quality level, and assessment of age. In the hand I feel that I would probably tend towards an earlier date than the period I have nominated.

All in all, it is an interesting piece.

[Jean]

Originally Posted by David

Jean, what specifically about this blade puts it clearly in the 20th century for you.

Hi David,
My opinion about this blade was not definite if you carefully read my comment and I am glad that Alan gave a more authorized one, thanks to him! The reason why I said that the blade is probably not older than 20th century (I meant before 1900) is rather subjective and only based on its excellent condition as seen from the pictures and influenced by the common quality dress.
Regards

[mercierarmory]

I truly appreciate everyone's comments. While i have acquired a few Filipino blades and edged weapons from that part of the world over the years, this is my first Keris and if I intend to keep it, I want it to be considered a higher quality piece, much like the other swords in my collection.

When I first saw the blade, I knew it looked to be better than ones I have handled in the past. But still, this is unfamiliar territory for me and the education provided from all your comments really helps. For that, I thank you.

Mike

[Rick]

Originally Posted by mercierarmory

I truly appreciate everyone's comments. While i have acquired a few Filipino blades and edged weapons from that part of the world over the years, this is my first Keris and if I intend to keep it, I want it to be considered a higher quality piece, much like the other swords in my collection.

When I first saw the blade, I knew it looked to be better than ones I have handled in the past. But still, this is unfamiliar territory for me and the education provided from all your comments really helps. For that, I thank you.

Mike

Well, I'd describe the blade as 'fair' quality; the dress, not so much .

[David]

Originally Posted by Rick

Well, I'd describe the blade as 'fair' quality; the dress, not so much .

I think i would agree with that. Keep in mind that there are all quality levels of keris. This is hardly a keraton piece. Really high quality keris can bring a rather high price tag. I think your blade is fairly well made and has a certain elegance to it, but it is not high end work. Ditto again what Rick and other have said of the dress. The blade seems nicer than the furniture.

[Rick]

It appears to me that the set of the luks is not quite on; still, this blade has much charm .