Indonesian Kris Hilt

Carved Horn Kris Hilt

This unusual kris hilt from 19th century Java shows a hunched over figure wearing a cap and sporting a beard. Wearily, he clutches a walking can with both hands. It is carved from horn and has a lustrous, glossy patina.

It includes a chased and gilded (gold-plated) silver hilt cup.

It is an exquisitely carved, small sculpture in its own right.

Traditionally,

krises in Indonesia were imbued with magical properties. Elaborate examples such as this one were part of the pustaka or heirlooms of the aristocracy to be passed from generation to generation. They were considered to have magic and to imbue magic and power on their owners.

The hilt comes with a display stand.

References:

Hamzuri, Keris, Penerbit Djambatan, 1988.

private collection, UK.