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abstract bird-like figure. Kris hilts can be carved from a variety of materials like wood, metal and ivory. More exotic substances include rhinoceros horn and hippopotamus teeth. Hilts made or clad in gold, silver and precious stones are reserved for nobility. Despite its abundance in the region, wood is held in high regard because trees are often associated with protective properties, a remnant of archaic animistic beliefs.

Although the days of mortal combat are over, the mystical role and supernatural power of the kris, at least in its amuletic form, remains prominent today. The 20th century has seen the number of empus decreasing dramatically and the making of high quality krises falling into decline. However, thanks to concerned kris experts, the tradition is being revived and appreciation in kris craftsmanship reawakened. In 2005, UNESCO gave the title Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity' to kris of Indonesia. Today, the kris is still part of royal regalia and remains a symbol of sovereignty for all Malay courts. They are treasured by regional museums as symbols of national pride and by private collectors. Krises have also become part of many museum collections around the world, especially in Europe.

The kris has always been highly collectible, due to its cultural value and remarkable artistry. The older specimens are unique and some are historically significant. They make good investments because even the beautifully crafted, high-quality ones are generally less expensive than more established fields of collecting such as Japanese swords or weapons of the Islamic heartlands. However, due to the ever-present peril of fakes, collectors should always apply their own due diligence towards making an investment.

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