Carved Whale Bone Kris Hilt of Bima or Garuda

The hilt, from the north coast of Java,  is in the form or a demon-like figure with fanged teeth, a prominent aquiline nose, and ringlets of curly hair that cascade down the back. Possibly, it is the demon-hero Bima, a character from the localised version of the Mahabharata epic poem from India. However, the figure has a prominent necklace comprising a snake that is knotted at the front and with the snake head prominent. So it might also be a localised version of Garuda, particularly given the beak-like nose.

The figure leans slightly to his right.

The figure squats on a tumpal throne of bamboo shoot motifs. The hands, with their elongated fingers, clutch the knees, but in opposing directions.

The figure is carved from whale bone and has a brass hilt ring.

The hilt has a superb, varying patina and good wear from being handled, all suggestive of significant age.