Corroded keris

[jagabuwana]

Originally Posted by A. G. Maisey

As for the appropriate dress for a Bugis blade, I think most collectors are in agreement that when a blade style can be identified it is correct to dress that blade in a scabbard and hilt that is societally correct. However, I have found Bugis, Madurese, and Balinese blades dressed in various forms of Javanese wrongko and hilt. This is because in the old days the lords of Jawa recruited mercenaries from Bali, Madura and from men of Bugis cultural background.

Interesting - thank you. I don't consider myself a collector and was asking more from the perspective of metaphysical/cultural ethics. As you suggested about the Bugis, we Sundanese don't have the same relationship with the keris as Javanese society does. But if there was a rule or consideration to be applied to dressing blades that is of cultural or spiritual consequence, I'd like to adhere to it or at least be aware.

First thing's first though... win the auction

[kai]

Hello Novan,

First thing's first though... win the auction

Keep in mind that buyer's premium, shipping&handling fees, and customs tax/fees will considerably add to the total cost. Most auction houses charge way more for shipping than the mere postal fees (which also have gone up quite a bit) - it's a good idea to ask for an estimate in advance (if you don't know from prior experience).

Are there any local sources you could tap into? For basic blades this may be cheaper (and better since you could closely examine them prior to purchase).

On ebay/etc., you also can find good buys (even bargains if you're patient, really patient) - however, as with any online transaction, it is often difficult/impossible to determine how deep any pitting really is and how much of the blade has been lost to corrosion. Caveat emptor...

Regards,
Kai

[kai]

Hello Novan,

I don't consider myself a collector and was asking more from the perspective of metaphysical/cultural ethics. As you suggested about the Bugis, we Sundanese don't have the same relationship with the keris as Javanese society does. But if there was a rule or consideration to be applied to dressing blades that is of cultural or spiritual consequence, I'd like to adhere to it or at least be aware.

If you consider wearing this keris at any Sundanese event, the fittings should be in tune with that. Coming with any keris in Bugis fittings may raise an eye brow...

For any other cultural/metaphysical considerations (that I'm aware of) any fittings of decent quality (and without defects) will do. While widely-traded keris blades will usually be found in local fittings according to the local dress code, most surviving examples of this type will certainly be found with Bugis(-influenced) fittings.

Regards,
Kai

[David]

Originally Posted by jagabuwana

First thing's first though... win the auction

I guess i missed that this keris we are discussing is not yet yours. General forum policy prohibits that discussion of items that are currently up for auction. Please make sure that you have read all forum policies, including the list that is specific to the Keris Forum, before posting again.
I am locking this thread for now. If and when you do win this auction to can send a message to either myself or Rick and we will re-open it for further discussion.
Thanks!