Moro Kris

Bill · 21st October 2005, 06:06 PM

Great sword. I would guess that this is an example of a keris smith making a kris. Being that the blade is approx. 23", it has a rectangular tang, the holes & file work, & the 45 degree gangya; I would guess 1st half of 19thC. I have found nothing to suggest that the "Moro" of the PI ever made keris. I have found that the kris was in wide use in 18thC Celebes. With the Bugis scattering from Celebes under Dutch control, it would be hard to place its origin. I would feel confident that where ever this sword came from, that it has Bugis influence. As it seems the Bugis had a thing for 18-20" swords and the Moro perfered, for the most part, 22-24" blades; the Philippines seems to be logical. Great example, likely a cross-over between groups. It may have once had a deep etch and then polished between the fuller lines & edge. I'd toss the stirup.

21st October 2005, 06:06 PM	#4
Bill Member Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Chicago area Posts: 327	Great sword. I would guess that this is an example of a keris smith making a kris. Being that the blade is approx. 23", it has a rectangular tang, the holes & file work, & the 45 degree gangya; I would guess 1st half of 19thC. I have found nothing to suggest that the "Moro" of the PI ever made keris. I have found that the kris was in wide use in 18thC Celebes. With the Bugis scattering from Celebes under Dutch control, it would be hard to place its origin. I would feel confident that where ever this sword came from, that it has Bugis influence. As it seems the Bugis had a thing for 18-20" swords and the Moro perfered, for the most part, 22-24" blades; the Philippines seems to be logical. Great example, likely a cross-over between groups. It may have once had a deep etch and then polished between the fuller lines & edge. I'd toss the stirup.