KERIS
(traditional Indonesian daggers)

on IndoArtNet

A traditional Empu (swordsmith) comes from an old family of Empus, learned the trade from his father and, through fasting and purification rituals, he is able to transfer mystical powers to his products.

Unfortunately this is a dying breed and most workshops have taken to mass-produce soulless daggers for souvenir shops or make "real" antique ones.

Only few artisans still produce high quality Keris and those who do count Javanese nobility or even the President of the Republic among their customers. Waiting lists are long and the best pieces are only available through connections.

Indonesian Arts Network has these connections and can make high quality Keris available to serious collectors in the West. In addition, we can find antique Pusaka (family heirloom Keris handed down over generations) from Indonesian collectors and dealers.

Good Keris are rare and in hight demand. The two pieces featured below are just examples of what we sent to our customers from time to time. However, please be aware that Keris, like all weapons, are difficult to ship and might need special permits in your country. Please contact us if you are interested in acquiring one.

This is a real Pusaka from Solo (Java), 80 - 100 years of age, with an unusual mother-of-pearl inlay on sheath and handle, which are also very finely carved (see detail). The heavy Majapahit style straight blade shows a rich Pamor (pattern of iron-nickel-layered damascene steel). With stylistical elements from several provinces combined in a non-traditional manner, this piece was probably made by an Empu for himself or a close friend. Although it shows signs of use and the inlay was repaired on the (non-exposed) backside of the sheath, the overall condition is excellent. A Cuci Keris (Keris washing) ceremony with fragrant oils, which is an experience in its own right and according to traditional beliefs due every year to appease the dagger's spirit, was performed by us prior to shipment. We sold this piece for US$350 to a collector in Malaysia.

This is a modern Keris (age approx. 15 years) made in traditional style and workmanship in Madura. It shows exceptional gold-plated engravings on the 13-waved blade, which symbolizes peace. The blade is made from very finely layered damascene steel and shows an intricate Pamor (see detail). This Keris was made for the Javanese market with sheath, handle and overall shape typical for Central Java, although the blade shows its Madurese origin. This item was sold for US$200 to a customer in France. Please contact us if you are interested in similar items.