The Kris (Keris) is the most famous ethnic weapon or heirloom of the Javanese people with its origins dating back to 1360 AD in the Kingdom of Majapahit, East Java. It is also indigenous to Singapore, Brunei, Malaysia and Thailand. The Kris blade, with its distinctive wavy edge, is prized for its magical, supernatural and spiritual properties.

The word kris means to stab or to pierce, but although classified as a weapon, some folklore suggests these much revered daggers were not made for combat, but rather as spiritual objects that protect their owners, warn of impending danger and provide bravery and confidence.

Today, the Kris still has great symbolic meaning. It symbolises the hope of fertility, eternity and power. The meticulously decorated Kris represents refinement, art and beauty, and is still regarded as a prized possession. However, the Kris’s magical power may only be brought to life if its owner displays worthy behaviour.