A large and unique Bugis Chieftain keris, Riau/Riau Islands, southern Malaysia.
A fully loaded example of keris art which has a lot packed in to it.
From the large quality hulu with fine grains and deep lustre, to the massive 15 luk Malaysian charita style blade of Penghulu size and presence, dressed within a large burl sampir, extended to the broad stem that is wrapped in black rattan to the base.
Keris of this size and stature are rarely encountered. At face value, the size and presence of this Keris dress, coupled with a very light, broad and robust blade, all point to this keris being made for a warrior chieftain, a Penghulu of substantial influence and fighting ability.
The blade itself is a work of art with 15 luk and 3 luk found within the 15 luk. It is classic Sulawesi luk influence melded with the Malaysian Charita blade types. What further sets it apart is the presence of pamor and an original stain to the blades surface which has been very well cared for throughout its life.
Overall this keris is 45.5cms long in its dress and 45cms out.
The blade measures 38.5cms long and 8.7cms across the width of the gonjo. For its size it is remarkably light in hand and the Charita like form provides a very robust cross section.
An exceptional keris.