Lombok Keris Iconology

David · 30th July 2024, 04:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by A. G. Maisey

. The frolicking little puppy is probably a winged lion, ie, singo barong.

I believe you are probably right about that. I hadn't noticed the wings at first.
Geoffry, the lion (singa) in Bali has Hindu-Buddhist origins. In Hinduism, the lion is an avatar of Vishnu. The Buddha sits upon the lion as a throne and it symbolizes the freedom and fearlessness of wisdom.
I have also read that the lion was associated with the Kshatriya caste. At least it is in Indian Hinduism.

G. Mansfield · 31st July 2024, 02:49 AM

Here are some additonal photos in sunlight along with the top view in sheath. I appreciate the information on the singa lion. I will look further into this symbolism. Thank you for the updated thoughts on what the image may represent.

Geoffrey

A. G. Maisey · 31st July 2024, 08:59 AM

When a member of the K'satriya Caste, ie, warrior cast is cremated, his petulangan (casket) is made in the form of a winged lion, other nobles of varying status are entitled to caskets in the form of other animals.

A Singo Barong need not have wings, but whether it is winged or not, it is still a hierarchical marker for a K'satriya.

In applications other than the cremation casket the Singo Barong performs a protective function, it is often placed above a gateway, or in the rafters of a house. When it is found on a keris, or keris dress, it has the function of protecting the keris from negative forces.

31st July 2024, 02:49 AM	#2
G. Mansfield Member Join Date: Jul 2016 Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Posts: 82	Here are some additonal photos in sunlight along with the top view in sheath. I appreciate the information on the singa lion. I will look further into this symbolism. Thank you for the updated thoughts on what the image may represent. Geoffrey Attached Images

31st July 2024, 08:59 AM	#3
A. G. Maisey Member Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 6,853	When a member of the K'satriya Caste, ie, warrior cast is cremated, his petulangan (casket) is made in the form of a winged lion, other nobles of varying status are entitled to caskets in the form of other animals. A Singo Barong need not have wings, but whether it is winged or not, it is still a hierarchical marker for a K'satriya. In applications other than the cremation casket the Singo Barong performs a protective function, it is often placed above a gateway, or in the rafters of a house. When it is found on a keris, or keris dress, it has the function of protecting the keris from negative forces.