Nicely carved Madurese hilt with Chinese Motif

[RSWORD]

Thanks for all the feedback thusfar. Rick, thank you for sharing your example. I like your thoughts about the bird possibly representing the Pheonix. I have a feeling that your and my example do exhibit strong Chinese influences.

Philip,

Yes, I remember that shop well. Lot's of goodies but the darn guy wouldn't sell me anything I was interested in. I do remember you talking about that double Keris and how much you kick yourself for not picking it up.

In regards to the dragon, I am still not convinced that it is not Chinese inspired. I am attaching a picture of a scabbard mount from a Chinese Peidao in which the dragon shares more similarities with this keris than not. Also, the swastika motif and rope motif suggest strong Buddhist elements. Either it is a strange amalgamation of styles carved onto the handle for no reason other than visual appeal or it had some intent to be recognized by individuals who would recognize said symbols. I am also attaching a picture of a scabbard of a Chinese Jian in which the entire scabbard has been carved with the swastika motif, amongst other things.