Kris with Sheath
Unknown Artist
19th century
Medium
Steel, wood, gold, diamonds, silver
Dimensions
L. with sheath 15 7/8 in. (40.3 cm); L. without sheath 15 1/4 in. (38.7 cm); W. 3 in. (7.6 cm); Wt. 7.4 oz. (209.8 g); Wt. of sheath 4.5 oz. (127.6 g)
Classification
Krisses
Culture
Indonesian
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Collection of Giovanni P. Morosini, presented by his daughter Giulia, 1932
Accession Number
32.75.256a, b
Art Historical Context
Behold the exquisite *Kris with Sheath a 19th-century masterpiece from Indonesia, showcased in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Arms and Armor Department. Crafted from steel for the blade, with a sheath of wood embellished in gold, diamonds, and silver, dagger exemplifies the opulent craftsmanship of its era. Measuring 15 7/8 inches (40.3 cm) with and weighing a mere 11.9 ounces (337.4 g) total, its lightweight yet formidable design balances functionality and finery, highlighting the kris's dual role as weapon and status symbol. In Indonesian culture, the kris—classified among traditional kri...