Laminated Kris for comment

[kai]

Hello Rick

Yes one could; but then you would be altering the blade to something other than the way it was originally made.

The uneven fullers are not traditionally done - it is quite obvious that this is merely sloppy workmanship and that they were left in a rather crude state. I'd not suggest any improvements if it was an antique blade with perceived shortcomings: these might be part of the history of the piece and reflect the financial abilities of the original owner and capabilities of the local smith. However, this is a modern piece with no hint that it was ever intended for real use; arguably it probably wasn't crafted on order for personal use but most likely produced for future customers, quite possibly for selling to a souvenir shop or, at best, at a market. I don't think a current owner who understands the aesthetics of traditional Moro culture is obliged to keep such a piece in its sorry "original" condition.

I sent a very nice kris off to someone for etching and for some reason they changed the tip to an acute point from its original semi rounded configuration.

I wasn't at all happy about that.

I bet. I'd guess that they were working on a piece that is not part of their own culture; often it is very tough to work with traditional artisans if pieces/styles are not known to them.

Obviously, any qualified restaurateur should always work with their client and communicate any suggested changes beforehand (most would argue that changes that can't be reversed are unacceptable, anyway).

Regards,
Kai