Dagger

Thick, heavy, wavy blade (13 curves), widening asymmetrically at base. Strong median ridge surrounded by two deep grooves that run 3/4 of length. No watery markings (pamor). Hilt polished dark brown wood carved as a seated demon (raksasa) with long hair falling down back, arms crossed over chest, and one foot on crouching animal. Gilt filigree cup (mendak), rim set with green, red, and colorless stones. An example of a class of daggers called kris, defined by the widening at one side of the blade base. Kris are not only weapons but also works of art and objects of mythical, ritual, and ceremonial significance: in 2005, UNESCO gave the title “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity” to the kris of Indonesia.