Solo Keris dating from 1821 for comment.

[Athanase]

Hello,

I successful to decipher the 4 sign of old Javanese written on the back of the sheath of this keris, and surprise they indicate the date of 1821 ! :cool:
Given the exceptional condition of the sheath I never thought he was so old.
We see that the sheath was specially made for this blade because the fit is perfect.
The blade measures 36cm and I suppose it is the same age as the sheath. :shrug:

[David]

Well many things are possible here. I wouldn't have much difficulty believing the blade is fro 1821, but i can see why you might have thought the sheath wasn't that old. The sheath itself may have been refinished, making it appear newer or just simply really well cared for. Or it may not be that old at all and the date may have been added latter or it might not be a date at all. While the perfect fit may well indicate that the sheath was made for the blade it does not necessarily mean that it is the original sheath made at the same time as the blade.

[A. G. Maisey]

I am in complete agreement with David.

[Paul de Souza]

Would this read as 1808 then?

[A. G. Maisey]

Javanese numbers 101

[Athanase]

Can the style of the sheath or blade of this keris indicate a time that reinforces or invalidates this date of "1821"?

[A. G. Maisey]

Blade style and dress style definitely pre-date WWII.

Other than that , it becomes guess work.

[Athanase]

Blade style and dress style definitely pre-date WWII.

Other than that , it becomes guess work.

Ok Thank you.

It's too bad for me that it's not possible to say more. This number will remain a mystery. :shrug: