Keris identification

[kai]

Hello Rasdan,

I just observe sometime probably between the 1700s to 1800s there is a practice where gold kerises uses very similar style of sheath regardless of the “nationality” of the owner. Composite, but not a work a dealer. Photos below.

Lots of possibility, however. Probably that is the generic type of sheath of the time since western Java keris also uses the similar type of sheath.

I'd quibble with some details (i.e. some of the shown scabbards clearly exhibit local styles). However, the same root/origin is certainly quite visible with these examples.

Even hilts styles, hilt cups cross borders.

This seems more of a thing with the Malay coastal cultures with local ports receiving lots of trade as well as (cross-)cultural influence from constantly migrating populations (including longer-distance expats like Bugis, Peranakan, etc.).

Javanese blades or Javanese style blades seems to be a favourite.

This also needs very close study: Some of these blades appear to be locally forged: While their overall appearance may seem Javanese on first sight, a real blade would need to be attributable to a specific culture and period. Mind you, gifts were also bestowed between the more important rulers and blades from Tanah Jawa (or Sunda) certainly show up in heirloom collections of local regents (as well as huge amounts of trade blades filtering through the archipelago).

One thing that shows is that they go quality and the go for the bling.

The rulers were free to go for exotic/foreign toys.

However, keep in mind that - with some local nuances - blending in with the own community was the central goal of any mere mortals. While there certainly was some place and even the clear expectation to exhibit your status, sticking out or even over-representing your social standing was generally shunned and pretty much considered heresy! Apparently, there was a bit more leeway in the trading ports, especially when their economical importance started to challenge existing overlordships.

Regards,
Kai