Kalis Tulid. Tausug, Sulu Island, Philippines. 1800-1840s. This is a ceremonial status kris belonging to a prominent and wealthy dato (see hilt section and reference). Blade has damascus steel naga (snake) down the entire length of the blade. Damascus pattern resembles wood grain and has darkened tempered edges. Back part of ganja notched but worn, front part has worn elephant's head with angled and oval opening, signifying a Tausug blade. (1) The original silver stirrup on front part of ganja is gone but replaced by Tim Holbert (10/98). I put small simple talismanic design on each side of stirrup on top as is customary for a piece of this type and matching the design at bottom of hilt (5/25/00).

Hilt is wood wrapped with 5 silver bands separated by 4 bands of braided silver wire. (2) This indicates a top status nobility piece. Top and bottom bands are chased in okir armilis designs. Silver pommel is done in shape of large stylized cockatoo head in danganan style. (3) Top tail soldered by Tim Holbert (10/98) to prevent tearing.

The original WWII replacement scabbard was made of Philippine mahogany, not fitting whole ganja, and later broke apart. I made second replacement scabbard done in narra/padauk fitted with 3 chased okir silver bands (each band is chased on front and back panels only with patterned silver wire lining the top and bottom edges; bottom band has flat silver plate). At the top of the scabbard are 2 panels of chased okir silver on both sides of the crosspiece. Okir designs based on Sulu styles. Finished 3/17/00 with help of Ron Hatch (rough wood) and Tim Holbert (silver solder). (4)

Collection Credit: Jose Albovias
Description Credit: Jose Albovias