Keris Hilt : pop quiz

[Newsteel]

There is also possibility that this hilt would be another "reproduction" - meaning it could be customised by someone at Sumatra. Unlike a typical tajong where it has a boxier shape, this may be customised to suite the Sumatran. Looking close at it, I would not rate it as a tourist piece either.

[BluErf]

A sumatran interpretation of the tajong, which probably appeared in recent times.

The carving is "quick and rough" type. I don't like to use the term "tourist", but ya, its probably part of that category.

[David]

Originally Posted by BluErf

The carving is "quick and rough" type. I don't like to use the term "tourist", but ya, its probably part of that category.

hmmm....it's certainly not a "fine" carving, but i think you and i have a different definition or "quick and rough".

[BluErf]

I think for this standard of carving, the carver probably took a day or two to finish, whereas for a proper tajong done with care, it could take months.

For an example on the 'quick and rough' part, just look at the eyes - its not even round.

[Alam Shah]

Originally Posted by BluErf

I think for this standard of carving, the carver probably took a day or two to finish, whereas for a proper tajong done with care, it could take months.

For an example on the 'quick and rough' part, just look at the eyes - its not even round.

Yes ... agreed. Just compare it with this or here.

[BluErf]

Originally Posted by Alam Shah

Yes ... agreed. Just compare it with this or here.

I think the 2nd link is a painting, not a real tajong. And I think it is not a painting of hilt by Mr Nik Rashiddin. His tajong hilts are not so stout, and his motifs are more "condensed".

[Alam Shah]

Originally Posted by BluErf

I think the 2nd link is a painting, not a real tajong. And I think it is not a painting of hilt by Mr Nik Rashiddin. His tajong hilts are not so stout, and his motifs are more "condensed".

Yes, the picture is from the book "Spirit of Wood...", (ref: Pg.20, (KW109), Kelantan, late 20th c, kenaung wood. Carved by the late Nik Rashiddin Nik Hussein... probably taken by a camera at a slight angle, then touch up with some digital effects (not done by me).

[David]

Originally Posted by BluErf

I think for this standard of carving, the carver probably took a day or two to finish, whereas for a proper tajong done with care, it could take months.

Well i certainly wish i could knock off something like this in a day...
No argument that this is not the fine and finished work that is the general standard for tajong hilts. But it is not the product of an unskilled artisan either.
Certainly it is a bit on the rough side (yep, noticed the eyes). Imagine what he could have done with another week or two...

[BluErf]

Originally Posted by David

Well i certainly wish i could knock off something like this in a day...
No argument that this is not the fine and finished work that is the general standard for tajong hilts. But it is not the product of an unskilled artisan either.
Certainly it is a bit on the rough side (yep, noticed the eyes). Imagine what he could have done with another week or two...

For these carvers who do this sort of work day-in day-out, it's really quite easy. The hardest part is when they have to do it creatively (i.e. not reproducing a standard "template"). And as the luxury brand people always harp - it's the finishing touches that takes the most amount of time.