Keris question

Georgia · 14th June 2006, 10:14 AM

Hi - I'm studying conservation of cultural materials and for my minor thesis am looking into culturally appropriate storage, handling and display of keris daggers. I'm wondering if anyone can advise me of whether any particular traditions exist relating to the care of keris, for example whether there are gender restrictions on who can clean or handle them, or whether the keris should be stored 'hierarchically' according to who made or owned them, or according to their power?
I'm also keen to learn about traditional preservation techniques and whether there are any health concerns relating to the use of arsenic sulphides in the cleansing processes ...
I am making contact with curators and conservators from around the SE Asian region (including Australia, where I am) but am equally keen to hear from collectors and people who may have participated in cleansing rituals.
I look forward to your replies!

14th June 2006, 10:14 AM	#1
Georgia Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Melbourne, Australia Posts: 8	Keris question Hi - I'm studying conservation of cultural materials and for my minor thesis am looking into culturally appropriate storage, handling and display of keris daggers. I'm wondering if anyone can advise me of whether any particular traditions exist relating to the care of keris, for example whether there are gender restrictions on who can clean or handle them, or whether the keris should be stored 'hierarchically' according to who made or owned them, or according to their power? I'm also keen to learn about traditional preservation techniques and whether there are any health concerns relating to the use of arsenic sulphides in the cleansing processes ... I am making contact with curators and conservators from around the SE Asian region (including Australia, where I am) but am equally keen to hear from collectors and people who may have participated in cleansing rituals. I look forward to your replies!