This is a very detailed and fine handle from Bali or possibly Java of a demon from Hindu myth ( rakshasa ). Very old 150 years or more, just a stunning piece. Excellent condition, 2 3/4" bone.
This is a very typical style piece from Bali, it is noteworthy because of its age, at least 100 years or more. Wood, about 2 3/4", fine dark patina, some wear ( not seen on the multitude of newer examples available). Excellent condition.
Not really common, but also not terribly rare, Ganesh ( elephant )is one of several Hindu gods represented on keris handles. This is a nice example made of horn with red pigment. 3 1/2" tall, excellent condition with wear and patina.
A really nice 100 year old mendak ( the small ring that fits over the tang of the keris between the blade and the selut or cup )from Bali. Brass and rock crystal, about 1/2" in diameter.
Very rare and very old ( circa 1890 or earlier ) in that is is beautifully carved and nicely detailed for a Lombok piece. Lombok is an island off the coast of Java and has it's own traditions. The keris hilts often look very tribal and rural. Wood, 3 1/2" tall. Fine patina and wear.
This is a fine example of this often faked type of handle from Sumatra. The wood has a beautiful grain that is chatoyant like tiger eye stone. Reminds one of a Henry Moore or Brancusi sculpture. This one is larger than most with much better proportions. Circa 1880, with newer copper selut ( cup ). I took the selut off for the images to show that this one is completely hand carved. Fine patina and slight wear. 4" by 1 3/4" by 1 3/4". Excelllent condition.
This is the only real example of this type of hilt in ivory that I have seen in over 20 years. ( I have seen over 10,000 handles in that time !). Sometimes referred to as "gantrim", these handles represent lotus fronds. This is a fine and very old ivory example -- probably marine ivory from the mid-19th century or earlier! Fantastic patina, and wear. 4" long by 1 1/4" wide.
Please see my other keris listings for information on the museum shows and publications that inc ...click for details
Rakshasas are the demons that figure prominently in Hindu stories particularly the Ramayanna. This is a particularly stunning example of the carvers art! This piece is all hand carved ( no drill carving ) in very deep relief with some ares conpletely undercut. It reminds me of some of the best Chinese and Japanese ivory carving from the same time period. Note the detail in the face and other areas. This is a top example at a very reasonable price! 4" by 1 1/2", fine patina slight ...click for details
This is a fine and very old SAdze from Sumatra, the hand forged iron head is about 200 years old or older. The shaft is 19th century, and bound together with leather. This piece has beautifully detailed carving with great wear and a fine rich patina. About 16" long.
