Makasar-Gowa type keris

[David]

Originally Posted by Rick

I see a figure on all the gold wrongkos; am I looking at depictions of Garuda?
If I am why does it seem almost obligatory to include it on all of them?
What is the symbolism?

That's a good question Rick. I believe Garuda is the probable answer to who this figure is given what appear to be wings. Of course Garuda is a Hindu deity who was know to be, as the divine eagle, the vehicle for Vishnu. So this symbolism predates Islam in the region. However, as with many elements from the Mojohaphit, aspects of Hinduism remain strong in Indonesia. In fact, the national emblem of Indonesia incorporates the symbolism of Garuda.