Kris (dagger) with Scabbard

Kris (dagger) with Scabbard

18th century
Locale
Java
Country
Indonesia
Object
kris, scabbard
Medium
Kris: steel, nickel, gold, ivory, sapphires and zircons; Sheath: timaha wood, ivory
Accession Number
1952.27.1-2
Credit Line
Anonymous Gift
Kris (dagger) with Scabbard. 18th century. Kris: steel, nickel, gold, ivory, sapphires and zircons; Sheath: timaha wood, ivory. Anonymous Gift. 1952.27.1-2.
Department
Arts of Asia
Collection
Arts of Asia
This object is currently on view
Kris (dagger) with Sheath Indonesia, Java 1700s Steel, ivory, gold, jewels, and wood Anonymous gift 1952.27.1,.2 In Indonesia and Malaysia, the kris is venerated as ornament, ceremonial object, and weapon, and legends of its magical and deadly powers are numerous. The ivory figure on the hilt of this kris is a rakshasa demon, which serves as a protective talisman. A serpent has been fashioned into the sinuous blade with its tail at the point and its head emerging from the base. The use of gold and jewels in the hilt suggests this was once a Balinese ceremonial court piece.

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