Elusive Tulip Pommel Kris

[kai]

When I see the tang of a Kris, it looks very slim compared to european and "middle eastern" blades.. was it made to be used or just a dress sword?

The Moro kris was always meant to be functional. There are a few exceptions of ceremonial pieces with huge pommels that would kinda get in the way and were worn by high ranking persons who would certainly choose another piece from their personal arsenal if they needed to take part in any battle; still good enough for SD action if needed at all.

Actually, the tang of a Moro kris (and Malay keris sundang) is quite thick. It may look a bit on the short side for modern eyes but has a proven track record. Many other sword blades from different cultures came with tangs of similar or shorter sizes: e. g. some of the Indian wootz blades. The tang of the shorter ancestors of the Moro kris - the keris dagger from the Indonesian and Malay spheres of influence - may look slim (not always though) but is usually good enough for it's intended use as a close-in stabbing weapon (this weapon function has become culturally obsolete in limited areas like Jawa).

Regards,
Kai