COMPOSITION 12 KERIS PART 1-

KERIS
Keris is a pointed and sharp weapon which was classified as a dagger with
many cultural functions in the western and central parts of the Indonesian
Archipelago. It has an unique form that can be differentiated from other sharp
weapons because it has an asymmetrical and curved forms. It also has a
damascene that looks like bright fiberous layered metal in each blade. The type of
this weapon is similar to badik.
In the past, keris had functions were as a weapon in war and as a
complement a ritual offering. At the present, it is used as a fashion accessories and
also cultural symbols or as a personal collection by its unique aesthetic.
The utilization of keris spreaded throught the society in Majapahit, namely
Java, Madura, Nusa Tenggara, Sumatera, coastal region of Kalimantan, a part of
Celebes, The Peninsula, Southern Thailand, and Southern Philipines (Mindanao).
Indonesian keris had been registered in UNESCO since 2005, as a legacy of world
Culture.
The shape of keris were influenced by Chinese and Indian culture. Similar
shapes are found in the relics of Dong Son and southern Chinese cultures, while a
respectful toward various metal objects can be traced back to the Indian culture,
especially Shaivsm.
Keris has following functions ;
1. A complement of offering, This thing was stated in an inscription from the first
millennium that shows keris as a part of an offering. Keris was also commonly
used in a mystical or paranormal ritual. This type is known as keris sesajian or
keris Majapahit.

COMPOSITION 12 KERIS PART 1-

2. A weapon, keris was used as a weapon in Majapahit era. The characteristics

of this type are strong, hard, and light. Several myths from Demak-Mataram
period mention some famous keris, such as Nagasasra Sabukinten.