Daily Life of Villager Blawong

Blawong originates from the words “blabak,” which means a wooden board or flat surface, and “dhuwung,” referring to a keris—a traditional Indonesian dagger. Hence, a “blawong” is a decorative wooden board designed as a display for a keris, often adorned with intricate carvings. This particular blawong showcases a vibrant depiction of daily life in a Javanese village. The detailed carvings illustrate various scenes, including villagers carrying goods in baskets, oxen pulling carts, and elephants in a ceremonial procession. The board is bordered with ornate floral and bird motifs that reflect traditional Javanese artistic styles. This piece not only serves as a functional display for a keris but also as a narrative art form celebrating Javanese traditions and community life.

Keris Dagger Holder, 1970
Origin: Tuban, East Java
Material: Teak Wood
Size: 76,5 x 40,5 x 1,5 cm