Malaysia Java antique ornate repoussé jeweled SILVER Kris Keris handle 20th c

Description

Malaysia Java antique ornate repoussé jeweled SILVER Kris Keris handle
- Image of "Batara Bayu"
- Superb quality casting and repoussé hand tooling.
- Embellished with semi-precious gemstones
- Excellent condition
- 19th-20th c.
- Measures 5-3/4" tall.
- Mounted on a metal stand
For more info about this item:
https://www.smpub.com/ubb/Forum7/HTML/000642.html
A sumptuous hilt of cast silver repoussé, set with a variety of gemstones, and probably dates from the mid-nineteenth century. The subject of the hilt can be identified as Bhīma's spiritual father, Batara Bayu, the Indonesian version of the Indian wind god, Vāyu. Batara Bayu is closely linked with Indra, the god of storms, who is the spiritual father of Arjuna. Thus the fraternal relationship between Bhīma and Arjuna may be seen as an earthly reflection of the celestial relationship between Batara Bayu and Indra. Batara Bayu is worshiped not only as the wind god but also as the bringer of health and prosperity and hence symbolizes protection against evil. He is recognizable by his characteristic broad grin, large mustache, and
panchanaka
. In his right hand he holds a representation of the bejeweled vessel that contains life-giving holy water (
toya mreta
), an important element of many Balinense rituals, especially those related to spiritual and physical purification. In the context of this hilt, the holy-water vessel may also symbolize the deep spiritual self-awareness (
dewa ruci
) into which Bhīma was initiated by Batara Bayu. As Bhīma's mentor in this pursuit he is known as Prabhu Guru Bayu (Bayu the Majestic Spiritual Teacher).