new keris owner

[Jean]

Originally Posted by dave78

So my questions are rather general:

Is it from the Sulawesi area?

Is it possible to tell the age?

What type of wood is used and is that bone or ivory?

How is the condition and should I do anything to preserve it?

I greatly appreciate any and all comments and want to thank you all in advance.

Hello Dave,
I have little knowledge about Malay krisses but can reply as follows:
. This kris is not from Sulawesi but rather from Malaysia from the shape of the hilt (anak ayam/ Jawa demam) and the sheath especially.
. It has some age, probably about 100 years old, the blade may be older.
. I don't know the wood type (not a rare one), and the tip of the sheath is probably made from ivory.
. The blade is in Bugis style, it could be cleaned by dipping it into a mild acidic solution (canned pinapple juice, vinegar, citric acid) and stained with arsenic solution, please refer to the forum threads about the subject.
I attach the picture of a similar kris in my collection, in partly damaged condition and with a different style of blade.
Best regards
Jean