Pics: Jawa Demam Hilts

[Alam Shah]

Originally Posted by ganjawulung

... Some people call such hilt as "buta bajang" (demon-giant), or "wayang" hilt. The long nose one, is Rajamala hilt. A wayang figure..

Thank you, ganja for sharing. I do have an example of a "buta bajang" hilt mounted on a keris.

I've studied hilts for sometime now, however my knowledge is still limited.
I found books from Martin Kerner, Vanna, Tammens, Suhartono and Bambang to be the most helpful, regarding hilts. Books from Van Duuren, Frey, Haryono and a few others do contain many hilts examples / illustrations also providing a good source of knowledge.

Physically handling the hilts provides another dimension of learning, having the chance to see the detailing works from various angles, material used, weight distribution, grasping techniques, not possible from pictures. I'm lucky to have friends and dealers whom are willing to share their items with me.