Kris
Unknown Artist
16th–19th century
Medium
Steel, wood
Dimensions
L. 14 in. (35.6 cm); L. of blade 11 in. (27.9 cm); W. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm); Wt. 2.8 oz. (79.4 g)
Classification
Krisses
Culture
Javanese
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of George C. Stone, 1935
Accession Number
36.25.1127
Art Historical Context
This exquisite Javanese *kris*, dating from the 16th to 19th century, exemplifies revered daggers central to Indonesian culture, particularly on the island of Java. Classified among the museum's collection of krisses in the Arms and Armor department it served not only as a weapon but also as a potent symbol of status, masculinity, and spiritual power. Wielded by warriors, nobles, and even spiritual figures, the kris embodied mystical beliefs—its blade thought to house a soul or protective spirit, influencing its intricate craftsmanship and ritual use. Crafted from steel and wood, this lightwe...