Kris
Unknown Artist
18th–19th century
Medium
Steel, ivory, wood, cord. silver
Dimensions
L. 31 3/8 in. (79.7 cm); L. of blade 24 in. (61 cm); W. 6 1/2 in. (16.5 cm); Wt. 2 lb. 12.4 oz. (1258.7 g)
Classification
Krisses
Culture
Philippine, Sulu
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of George C. Stone, 1935
Accession Number
36.25.1249
Art Historical Context
Step into the world of Southeast Asian martial heritage with this stunning 18th–19th century *kris* from the Sulu region of the Philippines. Crafted by an unknown artist, this dagger exemplifies the *kris* classification, a revered type of asymmetrical blade weapon prized across island cultures. Measuring 31⅜ inches long with a 24-inch steel blade, it weighs just over 2½ pounds, balancing lethality with elegance. The hilt, adorned with ivory, wood, silver, and cord wrapping, showcases exquisite materials that denote high craftsmanship and status. In Sulu Moro culture, the *kris* transcended m...