Bali

 

19th Cent. A.D.

 

Kris

Gold, Ivory, Ruby, Sapphire & other Precious Gemstones, Iron

 

Length: 69.5 cm

Width: 22.5 cm

Depth: 6 cm

 

Blade: 39 cm

 

with Handle: 53.5 cm

 

Balinese Royal Kris

 

This extraordinary sumptuous gold handle depicts Bhima, the most powerful of the 5 Pandawa brothers, the heroes of the great Hindu epic the Mahabharata. The muscular Bhima is shown seated on an undulating hillock with one foot tucked behind and one planted firmly on the ground. Both arms bent at the elbows are tucked tightly against his mighty chest. In his right hand he holds a truncheon, his weapon of choice. His round full face features bulging eyes and somewhat menacing grin, usually characteristics of raksasa demons, belies his hot temper and penchant for action. Bhima wears an arching crown, elaborate sarong and princely jewelry including necklace, belt, arm and legbands and earrings. The tiny sculpture is richly encrusted with rubies and sapphires.

The sheath’s wrangka is carved of a massive piece of ivory. Its deep rich color creates a pleasant contrast with the wooden bottom sheath one side of which is covered with a rare pelet wood. The blade is decorated with a stunning pamor damascene pattern and has 13 luk or curves. This complimented with an elaborate gold pattern including a magical flame in the center and undulating blossoms and tendrils. On the top side these are rendered in three dimensions.

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