KERIS FOR COMMENT AND IDENTIFICATION

David · 28th February 2009, 02:02 PM

Yes, i would say that there are very clear tool marks that would lead me to believe that the "buddha" was added later, possiblly even just before it's sale to you. As to the figure itself, i don't think Madura has been as strictly Islamic as some other island. Certainly a lot of figurative carving comes out of that area.
I'd say the hilt is ivory, but i'm not so sure it is marine ivory. Why do you think so?

Sajen · 28th February 2009, 02:55 PM

Hello Royston,
I would guess that David is right, the figure is added later to upgrade the blade. But maybe the complete blade is a recent work.
The hilt is a very nice one and I hope that the price for the keris have been like this to compensate the worth of the hilt. And you are right, it is marine ivory from walrus to see by the crystalline structure at some places. Very nice hilt!
Regards,
sajen

28th February 2009, 02:02 PM	#1
David Keris forum moderator Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Nova Scotia Posts: 7,229	Yes, i would say that there are very clear tool marks that would lead me to believe that the "buddha" was added later, possiblly even just before it's sale to you. As to the figure itself, i don't think Madura has been as strictly Islamic as some other island. Certainly a lot of figurative carving comes out of that area. I'd say the hilt is ivory, but i'm not so sure it is marine ivory. Why do you think so?

28th February 2009, 02:55 PM	#2
Sajen Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Germany, Dortmund Posts: 9,272	Hello Royston, I would guess that David is right, the figure is added later to upgrade the blade. But maybe the complete blade is a recent work. The hilt is a very nice one and I hope that the price for the keris have been like this to compensate the worth of the hilt. And you are right, it is marine ivory from walrus to see by the crystalline structure at some places. Very nice hilt! Regards, sajen