Tricky Bugis Keris

[Alam Shah]

Originally Posted by David

Well, like you Shahrial, i am no more than an avid collector and don't have anywhere near the experience that Alan has with keris.

Indeed. We are here to learn and share... are we not?

Originally Posted by David

My first impression of this blade was, frankly, somewhat influenced by the dress. Since it doesn't look Bugis influenced to me i thought that it might be Sumatran made under the influence of Javanese keris style. But i do see many of Alan's points. Especially about the slope of the gandik. It is not just a matter of the kembang kecang recessing into the gandik, which is indeed common on many Bugis pieces. It is the actual slope of the entire gandik area.

Likewise, I think for most of us. Again another learning experience, for me.

Originally Posted by David

If you compare Michael"s example with John's that you most recently linked to you might be able to see what i mean. While this two keris bear an overall resemblance to each other i think that on a point by point basis there are vast differences and that the different origins come clear.

I somewhat agree. How about the similarities to Keris Kapak Cina? Any comments?

Originally Posted by David

If i were a betting man i think i would put my money on Alan's assessment of Michael's keris.

Well, luckily I not a betting man. How about comments on the fittings?