High-ranking Balinese Kris Handle – Richly Gilded Sterling Silver – Rose-cut Diamonds – XI

A rare Balinese dignitary's kris handle in richly gilded solid silver, set with antique rose-cut diamonds and garnets. The figure depicts a protective presence holding a ritual vessel. 19th-century Balinese work. Description: An exceptional kris handle carved in the round, representing a hieratic anthropomorphic figure with a powerful expression: wide-open eyes, deeply furrowed mustache, incisive modeling, and an architectural crown. The figure holds a small, stylized ritual vessel in its right hand, a major iconographic element in Balinese tradition. Gilding: Richly gilded solid silver. The antique gilding, a deep and even yellow tone, displays a natural patina consistent with traditional high-grade application. Progressive wear on the edges and gentle oxidation in the hollows confirm its age. Iconographic context: By its characteristics (broad smile, pronounced moustache, ritual vessel), the figure can be compared to representations of Batara Bayu, god of the wind and major protective figure in Balinese cosmology. Comparable examples are illustrated in Hales (2013, pp. 115, 117, 125). A similar model is held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (inv. 28.23.2a,b), where the figure is interpreted as Batara Bayu holding the vessel containing the life-giving holy water (toya mreta). Jewelry ornamentation – Antique rose-cut diamonds, uncalibrated, set in bezels. – Large central garnet structuring the composition. – Hierarchical alternation of cabochons and faceted stones. – Solid, antique, non-industrial settings. Technical characteristics Height: 12 cm Weight (excluding base): 183 g Production: Bali or Java, 19th century. Positioning Handle intended for a high-ranking ceremonial kris, combining expressive carving, ritual symbolism, and rich jewelry.