Opinions: large Kris w/ intricate inlay

[Ian]

Hello another_rick.

Welcome to the Ethnographic Forum! As Rick has noted, this is an example of a Moro kris. It has a complicated inlaid pattern that is very unusual.

I don't think this is an 18th C blade, but rather late 19th or even early 20th C. judging from its width and the way the terminal luk and tip have been constructed. The dark patina and mild surface pitting suggest that the blade has not been well maintained over the last century or so.

Of note is the very short tang. It is possible that this is a broken tang, but short tangs such as this one were made that way on some early 20th C kris. I do n ot see a separate gangya, and the tang has been welded directly to the gangya rather than passing through it. Again, this suggests 20th C work.

We need some help from our Filipino colleagues to explain the significance of the motifs on this blade. Some of them appear to be influenced by a naga (snake).

Regards, Ian


P.S. My post and Detlef's crossed. I'm pleased we agree on the dating. I also agree that the blade would benefit greatly from cleaning.