Dagger

P3264A

From: Bali (uncertain)

Curatorial Section: Oceanian

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Native Name Kris
Object Number P3264A
Current Location Collections Storage
Culture Balinese
Provenience Bali (uncertain)
Section Oceanian
Materials Metal | Wood
Description

Dagger with large, thick, wavy blade (5 curves), watery pattern (pamor). Deep triangular groove at top one side. Gap between top of blade and guard. Large wood handle in the form of a figure with head thrust forward and a beak-like nose, arms crossed on chest. One 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”

Length 50.5 cm

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