Two Bali Hilt ID

[HughChen]

Can anyone tells if the first keris is gilded with gold or brass? I think it should be gold, because for so many years it hasn't be corrupted.

[David]

Originally Posted by HughChen

Can anyone tells if the first keris is gilded with gold or brass? I think it should be gold, because for so many years it hasn't be corrupted.

Often these hilts are brass with a gold wash or gilt. This applies a thinning layer of gold than plating, filling or electroplating, which is why in older examples it can be seen as wearing off and revealing the brass base metal. You can see this in my example below.

[HughChen]

Originally Posted by David

Often these hilts are brass with a gold wash or gilt. This applies a thinning layer of gold than plating, filling or electroplating, which is why in older examples it can be seen as wearing off and revealing the brass base metal. You can see this in my example below.

Thank you David !