Artwork Page for Sword (Kalis or Sundang)

Details / Information for Sword (Kalis or Sundang)

Sword (Kalis or Sundang)

before 1916

Philippines, Mindanao

Medium
Blade: metal; handle: metal with silver wire; pommel: silver
Measurements
66.4 x 12.6 cm (26 1/8 x 4 15/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of J. H. Wade 1916.750
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Did You Know?

The undulating blade is thought to embody spiritual potency and the dynamic flow of energy.

Description

The kalis is one of the most recognizable bladed weapons of Muslim Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago and was both a weapon and a symbol of rank and honor. This long, double-edged steel blade features continuous undulations from base to tip. Among the Maranao and Maguindanao people, sword making was a specialized craft requiring collaboration among blacksmiths (panday), carvers, and metalsmiths.
A silver metal kris faces down, its long blade featuring wavy edges that taper to a rounded point. The wide, asymmetrical base includes a jagged, saw-toothed edge on the left and curved hooks on the right. A dark, cylindrical handle is tightly wrapped in silver wire and topped by a textured silver cap. Faint vertical lines mark the matte gray surface where the metal widens at the guard before narrowing into rhythmic waves.

Sword (Kalis or Sundang)

before 1916

Philippines, Mindanao

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