New Keris Owner

[sabertasche]

Ok guys, why would I want to balance my keris? This is the first time I've heard of this. What is the cutural/religious.mystical significance of this? I only have 1 keris in my collection. Although to my eyes it is a thing of beauty, I had not considered any mystical attributes. Should I??

Greg

[Rick]

Greg , I think that is a matter for each collector to decide on his own .

Either you believe or you don't .

Scattered ; waiting on those pics ....

[scatteredminds]

Here are some more pictures.

[scatteredminds]

Does anyone know I can/should clean the blade. I am such a newb that I am afraid I will damage the blade. Does anyone know someone in Winnipeg or Canada for that matter that does cleaning professionally. Sorry about the picture quality. My sons digital is not great. When I can find a better camera I will take more pictures.

[Rick]

The blade is fine .
The pictures ......... well
We really need to see the entire pattern on each side of the blade in focus .

For care of the blade ...
A little keris oil maybe ; no more than that for now .

BTW , if you're going to pursue your interest in keris please buy from reputable dealers rather than electronic auctions .

[doecon]

It doesnt really look as a 500USD, keris. I'm sorry. Its rather a common type, might be a bit older, but that doesnt make it special. As mentioned before, you can find some prices of similar pieces in the closed items section of eBay.

Just accept the fact that you have helped the "guard" to support his family and you did a good thing by stimulating local economy.

I agree with Rick, dont buy from just anyone offering you a keris. Especially not in a tourist area (of course).

Disagree about the online auctions, I think you have some very good offers on eBay from respectable sellers. But be carefull who you buy from.

[Alam Shah]

The fittings, hilt (or ukiran) and sheath (or warangka) is in Yogyakarta Gayaman form. As said before, for everyday use.

About the blade, the ganja area (the other piece, lower part of the blade), seems to have some age to it with some worn-down area. The ganja has Pamor Mas Kemambang, i think. I'm no expert.

Overall, a slightly above average piece in good condition.
A little oil to prevent rust would be sufficient for now.

doecon said...

It doesnt really look as a 500USD, keris. I'm sorry. Its rather a common type, might be a bit older, but that doesnt make it special. As mentioned before, you can find some prices of similar pieces in the closed items section of eBay.

No need to rub it in doecon... Why bother, checking the price for something that had been already paid for? Unless, as a reference for future purchases. Whether it is special or not is up to the owner. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. Who are we to say. Keris collection is a matter of personal preference. If it is a gift from my sister, it is special to me all right. Or for that matter any gifts.

[Pangeran Datu]

Originally Posted by doecon

It doesnt really look as a 500USD, keris. I'm sorry. Its rather a common type, might be a bit older, but that doesnt make it special. As mentioned before, you can find some prices of similar pieces in the closed items section of eBay.

The value/beauty of a keris/kris, be it intrinsic.... esoteric.... or exoteric. is in the eyes of the beholder.

A gift should be given special value. I have a keris that was sent/given to me by a total stranger whom I have never even met. While it may not have much value to others. it takes pride of place in my collection.

.... It may be of value to remember what gave rise to the term: 'White Elephant'....