Seeking advice on Balinese keris hulu

[David]

Originally Posted by Anthony G.

Good recent craftsmanship means the hilt only and not the blade. right?

I believe it does Anthony. This appears to be a decent Bali blade from the late 19th C, though as Jean has pointed it, it does have some damage issues, not just to the tail of the gonjo, but also along the edges, especially just above the gandik.
I cannot speak to the age of the hilt and have not had the benefit to handle the piece like Paul has, but would it matter to you if this hilt were not antique? It is traditionally made, nicely crafted and appears to be made of precious metal. Dress is routinely updated within keris-bearing societies. I don't believe age would add much value to this hilt IMHO.