Keris for identification

SidJ · 9th January 2023, 11:41 AM

Hello
Please could you advise me on this keris? 18cm long blade length including ganja. The scabbard reminds me of the Tajong keris type. There is no pamor on this blade. Any age estimate? This is one of the first keris that came my way and I am quite attached to it.
Thanks

Jean · 10th January 2023, 08:29 AM

Interesting and unusual small keris, my best guess about its origin is Jambi or South Sumatra (Bengkulu), and my age estimate about 100 years old. Is the blade fitting neatly into the scabbard? Other opinions are welcome

SidJ · 10th January 2023, 10:40 AM

Hello Jean
Yes the scabbard is a perfect fit and appears original to the keris.

kai · 10th January 2023, 04:40 PM

Hello Sid,

These small and simple blades do pop up once in a while. Often they are from modern monosteel while a few sport laminated blades; the gonjo of yours is definitely laminated.

I'd like to see more close-ups: A top view of the scabbard and all sides of the hilt might help.

Regards,
Kai

SidJ · 10th January 2023, 07:50 PM

Hi Kai
I think the blade is laminated and not mono steel. I will try and take more pics but as I say the scabbard is a perfect fit in all respects.

David · 11th January 2023, 05:38 PM

The scabbard definitely seems to be from Sumatra as that inserted toe of horn is a common feature. Lovely wood on the stem which i assume displays chatoyancy.
I see no reason to assume the blade is modern monosteel. It seems to have some legitimate age as well.
While it's difficult to place the origins of blades like this, that are obviously made far outside the standards of any court, it seems somewhat safe to place it in the same area as sheath if indeed it appears the sheath was constructed specifically for it. So South Sumatra is at least a good starting point.

kai · 12th January 2023, 02:05 AM

Hello Sid,

Quote:

I will try and take more pics but as I say the scabbard is a perfect fit in all respects.

I trust you on the fit. However, I'm looking for some design features to possibly narrow down the likely origin.

Regards,
Kai

kai · 15th January 2023, 10:13 PM

Hello Sid,

Quote:

Originally Posted by kai

I'd like to see more close-ups: A top view of the scabbard and all sides of the hilt might help.

Could you provide the pics, please? It's really tough to discuss missing evidence...

Regards,
Kai

9th January 2023, 11:41 AM	#1
SidJ Member Join Date: Apr 2020 Posts: 174	Keris for identification Hello Please could you advise me on this keris? 18cm long blade length including ganja. The scabbard reminds me of the Tajong keris type. There is no pamor on this blade. Any age estimate? This is one of the first keris that came my way and I am quite attached to it. Thanks Attached Images

10th January 2023, 08:29 AM	#2
Jean Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Posts: 1,740	Interesting and unusual small keris, my best guess about its origin is Jambi or South Sumatra (Bengkulu), and my age estimate about 100 years old. Is the blade fitting neatly into the scabbard? Other opinions are welcome

10th January 2023, 10:40 AM	#3
SidJ Member Join Date: Apr 2020 Posts: 174	Hello Jean Yes the scabbard is a perfect fit and appears original to the keris.

10th January 2023, 04:40 PM	#4
kai Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 3,218	Hello Sid, These small and simple blades do pop up once in a while. Often they are from modern monosteel while a few sport laminated blades; the gonjo of yours is definitely laminated. I'd like to see more close-ups: A top view of the scabbard and all sides of the hilt might help. Regards, Kai

10th January 2023, 07:50 PM	#5
SidJ Member Join Date: Apr 2020 Posts: 174	Hi Kai I think the blade is laminated and not mono steel. I will try and take more pics but as I say the scabbard is a perfect fit in all respects.

11th January 2023, 05:38 PM	#6
David Keris forum moderator Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Nova Scotia Posts: 7,025	The scabbard definitely seems to be from Sumatra as that inserted toe of horn is a common feature. Lovely wood on the stem which i assume displays chatoyancy. I see no reason to assume the blade is modern monosteel. It seems to have some legitimate age as well. While it's difficult to place the origins of blades like this, that are obviously made far outside the standards of any court, it seems somewhat safe to place it in the same area as sheath if indeed it appears the sheath was constructed specifically for it. So South Sumatra is at least a good starting point.