Kris Indonesia, Bali, 1800s kris: steel, nickel, gold, ivory, sapphires and zircons, 20 1/4 inches (51.4 cm); sheath: timaha wood, ivory Anonymous gift 1952.27

In Indonesia and Malaysia, the kris is venerated as ornament, ceremonial object, and weapon, and legends of its magical and deadly powers are numerous. The ivory figure on the hilt of this kris is a rakshasa demon, which serves as a protective talisman. A serpent has been fashioned into the sinuous blade with its tail at the point and its head emerging from the base. The use of gold and jewels in the hilt suggests this was once a Balinese ceremonial court piece.


To Southeast Asia