Keris

Keris

Keris (java, indonesia) is a weapon dagger stabbing class (pointed at the tip and sharp on both of sides) with many cultural functions are known in western and central area of Indonesia. The shape is distinctive and easy to distinguish from the other sharp weapons, because it is not symmetrical at the base that widened. often Blade tortuous and many of it have prestige (damascene), that is strokes bright metal blade on blade. Type of stabbing. The weapon that has similarities with the dagger is called badik. 

Years ago, keris use as a weapon for a duel or battle or as the object complement for offerings. But now Keris has more function such as accessory items (ageman) for dressing, as a number of cultural symbols, or become a collectibles that assessed as aesthetics value.

function of keris spread from the community affected by the Majapahit empire such as Java, Madura, Nusa Tenggara, Sumatra, Coast Kalimantan, part of Sulawesi, the Malay Peninsula, southern Thailand and southern Philippines (Mindanao). Keris Mindanao known as kalis. In Every palce, keris has its own peculiarities in appearance,  function, technique filmed, and terminology.

Actualy, form of keris has not been fully explained, because there is no source of true descriptive writing about it from period before 15th century, although the mention of the term keris was listed in the inscription from the 9th century. Scientific study of keris development based largely on analysis of figures at reliefs of temple or statue. Meanwhile, knowledge about the function of the keris is traceable from some of the inscriptions and the reports of foreign explorers to the archipelago.

Modern Keris that we know now is believed by historians has gotten its design from majapahit period (14th century) and new Mataram empire (17th century), although relief in Bahal temple is still as heritage of Panai/Pane empire (11th century ), as part of Sriwijaya, empire in Portibi, north Sumatera. this is show indication that at 10-11th century keris are known has found its desing as now. From 15th century, once of relief in Sukuh temple, that was cult place from last Majapahit period, shown a master craftsman was creating keris. This is to be historians reason to laim that design of keris whict known now has achieved its development at Majapahit period.