Kris of a high-ranking dignitary
The wavy or ‘flaming’ blade of this kris comes from Java. It was later fitted with a hilt and a sheath in the sultanate of Palembang on Sumatra, where there was an important kris workshop. The luxurious finish suggests that the kris belonged to a high-ranking dignitary. The small ring between the hilt and blade (mendak), for example, is inlaid with diamonds. The hilt is in the form of a bird’s head.