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Ceremonial African Sword

Sword and Sheath

Sword in sheath

Collection: African Art Collection
Description: This long double-headed sword has a narrow blade and sheath and is designed for cutting and hacking. The handle is covered with tin. The sword is dull and has not been sharpened except for to ensure fit into the sheath. The sheath is decorated with stained leather adornments. The sword and sheath are both in good condition.
General Note: GEOGRAPHY / CULTURE GROUP: West Africa. Africa has rich and diverse cultures. Swords have played a role in African cultures for hundreds of years. Many African cultures believe swords were used by the gods to make Earth habitable for humanity. Today, swords are more symbolic than functional. Still, they are very important and have been incorporated into traditional tribal festivities and native dress.
Artists/Makers: Unknown West Africa Read Biography

Unknown

GEOGRAPHY / CULTURE GROUP: West Africa. Africa has rich and diverse cultures. Swords have played a role in African cultures for hundreds of years. Many African cultures believe swords were used by the gods to make Earth habitable for humanity. Today, swords are more symbolic than functional. Still, they are very important and have been incorporated into traditional tribal festivities and native dress.
Student Work: No
Culture: Unknown
Geography: West Africa
Medium: Leather, iron, tin, and pigment, not counting decorative attachments
Classification: Ritual Object
Accession Number: 2022.01.085
Accession Date: May 2022
Donated By: Reginald and Celeste Hodges
Donation Date: May 2022