Thank you both.
Just like with antique guns, one must, I believe, personally handle and examine many of these objects, along with reading what is available, before being able to make a decent purchase.
I didn't spend much on this one & can probably get the $ back. It is a relatively inexpensive step in my education.
Hmmm. . . been doing this since 1951 with old muskets . . . wonder if I've time to learn catch-up with blades? Well, it keeps the synapses firing.
By the way, collectors/dealers destroy many an old firearm with much the same mentality as used on this keris blade. Got a fine old model 1816 Springfield musket dated 1817 at the same show, would be even finer if some genius hadn't removed that ugly old prickly raised walnut grain with his fine steel wool. Even respected dealers will scrape off patina so one may more readily read the serial number.
Doubt that I will ever be a smart keris collector.
Also doubt that I can leave them alone now.
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