A sword of possible Malaysian origin, kris, believed to be hundreds of years old, has been found at the bottom of a Welsh river bed. Experts have no explanation as to how it could have traveled the thousands of miles to Carmarthen, Wales.
Andrew Davies was casting his net into the River Towy when he caught the 18th century kris in his net. He promptly took it to the local Carmarthenshire museum, where they took photos and sent them to London. They have yet to hear back.
The sword is in impressive condition, with less corrosion than expected. The wooden handle has worn, but it’s still possible to see a bird made of bone, and copper-like bits adorning it. Local museum curator Gavin Evans believes that it has probably spent time encased in mud, preserving much of it.
How it came so far is still a mystery. The port was well-known historically, and could have ended up there after falling overboard. Although Davies wonders if ‘there is the possibility of a more sinister explanation. Could it be a murder weapon that was tossed into the river many, many years ago? Who knows, but it’s very interesting. To think that a blade from Asia has found its way all the way to this corner of Wales is impressive to think.’ This sounds adorable if you imagine it in a Welsh accent.
The kris is seen all over Southeast Asia, not just in Malaysia, but also Indonesia, Thailand, Brunei, and Singapore. A version also exists from the Philippines that is called a kalis and is more of a sword than dagger. The kris has a distinct wavy blade, although some versions have straight blades.
For now, it’s finders’ keepers for Mr Davies. The sword has been returned to him. Anybody want to give him the heads up on how committed hantu (Malaysian ghost) are to staying near their treasures?
