Important Collection of Antique Asian Arms
Lot 26:
Keris Dagger from Sumatra have a distinct form and are most often associated with aparticular handle form referred to as a Jawa Demam hilt. The origin of this form are unknown but the general form is a highly abstracted crouching figure, the term itself translates as fever stricken. Commentators have noted that its origin may be as varied as a representation of theHindu bird god Garuda (which can be found on other Indonesian origin hilts in Madura for example), whether it is a representation of an earlier Majapahit period hilt, or a variation on acockatoo which is otherwise found represented in Malay and Indonesian hilts. Regardless of the origin it is consistently a striking form closest in approximation to modern art abstract human forms.This example in the Schmiedt Collection is a fine representation of an antique example. The very finely carved and aged jawa demam form handle is in fine condition with finely carved andengraved mendak, similar to those found on other Sumatran keris (See Ghirinelli 2007; pg. 65).The sheath is simple but made of finely patterned wood, which was much prized for the quality of the wood grain and lustre called chatoyancy. Chatoyancy in wood occurs in various species, especially the most prized hardwoods found on Indonesian keris scabbards and hilts, particularly where stress from the weight of the growing tree results in denser patches, or where stressescause burls or bird’s eye. The richer the chatoyancy of the hilt or scabbard the more prized thekeris is. The blade is very finely crafted and with a 3 luk waved form, and displaying a richly patterned pamor. This has a pattern in the middle called a Kulit Semangka but with lines running along the edges in the style called Adeg. Dating from late 19th to early 20th century. Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 18" Blade Length : 12 1/4".Shipping of this lot is within USA ONLY, except CA and NJ. NO INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING.References:1. Frey, E. (1988) The Kris: Mystic Weapon of the Malay World. Oxford University Press.2. Mardianto, W. A to Z Sesuatu mengenai KERIS dan TOMBAK KERIS â€â€œ SENJATATRADISIONAL INDONESIA A to Z3. Ki Empu Jhuel. Pamor Keris4. Ghiringelli. V. (2007) The Invincible Krises 2. Saviolo Publisher5. Van Zonneveld, A.G. (2001) Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago.Leiden: Art Books6. Gardner, G.B. (2009) Keris and other Malay Weapons. Orchid Press.Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at [email protected]
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