Coteng ended by ebay!

[BluErf]

The discussions remind me of why I went from collecting Javanese/Balinese kerises to Malay/Bugis kerises. Beyond looks, there are also less visible qualities in kerises that can endear them to collectors. Ok, I'm not talking about magic or djinn-inhabited kerises, but tough and functional kerises.

I'll never forget the feeling of holding my first Bugis sepokal blade. It was butt-ugly, but it exuded power and confidence. Sure, anyone else might laugh at its unkempt appearance, but not for very long if they find themselves at the wrong end of it. ;p

Some Malay kerises don't look it, but they are tougher than they look. I've been surprised more than a few times by thin blades which are tough as hell and hold a keen edge. I guess there is more to life than looks.