Rare Pre-Colonial Javanese Conical Trade Weight (1 Kati) – Majapahit Era with "Kijang" (Deer) Countermark Lot 3697

Rare Pre-Colonial Javanese Conical Trade Weight (1 Kati) – Majapahit Era with "Kijang" (Deer) Countermark

An exceptional and highly collectible pre-colonial conical trade weight, sourced from Java, Indonesia.
This heavy metal weight (likely a high-quality tin alloy or bronze compound) dates back to the early trade networks of the Indonesian archipelago, most active during the Kediri to Majapahit Kingdom eras (ca. 10th – 15th Century).
The weight features a distinct, official circular countermark on its flank. This official stamp depicts a Kijang (the Javanese Barking Deer / Muntjac), a legendary royal symbol heavily utilized in early Javanese numismatics (such as the famous gold and silver Massa coinage). This countermark served as a royal guarantee of weight accuracy for merchants, tax collectors, and international traders in the bustling ancient ports of Java.

Origin: Java, Indonesia (Ancient Javanese Kingdoms)Type: Conical Trade Weight / Tampang Weight (1 Kati Standard)
Countermark: Circular stamp featuring a stylized Kijang Deer)
Weight: 784 grams (An outstanding, heavy specimen aligning with early maritime trade standards)
Diameter: 75mm (Base)Height: 71mm
Excellent archaeological state with a beautiful, authentic aged patina and clear visibility of the royal countermark. Completely untouched and uncleaned to preserve its historical integrity.
In the pre-colonial era, Java was the global epicenter of the spice trade. To facilitate fair trade with Chinese, Indian, and Arab merchants, Javanese courts issued official marketplace weights. Weights featuring the Kijang motif are incredibly scarce compared to standard un-marked variations. Weighing in at 784 grams, this piece represents a local 1-Kati standard, making it an essential piece of maritime Southeast Asian economic history.
Actual dimensions:
diameter:  mm,
Weigth:  gram.

!! Please note, due to updated import regulations from the United States, we are not able to ship to the US at this moment. !!

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ID: 3697