Javanese Ceremonial Bronze Dagger With Anthropomorphic Hilt and Blade

Javanese Ceremonial Bronze Dagger with Anthropomorphic Hilt and Blade

This ceremonial bronze dagger from Java is distinguished by its fully integrated anthropomorphic form, in which hilt and blade are conceived as a single sculptural composition. The upper section presents a stylized human figure standing with arms akimbo, the curved arms framing the torso in a posture suggestive of authority or ritual readiness. The head is rendered as a triadic configuration: a central face flanked by two smaller subsidiary heads or rounded forms, each pierced at the eyes and mouth, reinforcing themes of spiritual guardianship, multiplicity, or ancestral presence.

The torso is elongated and perforated with a series of small circular openings, a feature commonly associated with symbolic or ritual intent rather than utilitarian function. The blade descends seamlessly from the figure into a narrow, tapering form, pierced by an oval aperture near its center. This interruption of the blade’s surface further supports the interpretation of the object as ceremonial rather than martial.

The surface exhibits pronounced age-related wear, with deep pitting, casting irregularities, and a dark, stable patina consistent with early bronze metallurgy. The dagger exemplifies early Javanese metalworking traditions, where weapons served as potent ritual objects embodying cosmological beliefs, ancestral power, and social status.

H – 15.5 x 6x 2 cm

Height with stand – 20 cm / 349 g

Price include custom stand and shipping worldwide.