Kris with Sheath

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The scene chiseled in relief on the blade probably represents episodes from the Mintaraga, a popular Javanese tale about Arjuna, which ultimately derives from the Māhābharata. In the story the god Shiva, in the guise of a hunter, engages in a titanic single combat with Arjuna in order to test his worthiness as the leader of the Pāndavas.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.

Metropolitan Museum of Art