Accession Number
2010/2.9

Title
Knife

Artist(s)
African

Artist Nationality
African (general, continental cultures)

Object Creation Date
20th century

Medium & Support
iron and brass

Dimensions
12 3/8 in x 3 9/16 in x 9/16 in (31.43 cm x 9.05 cm x 1.43 cm);12 3/8 in x 3 9/16 in x 9/16 in (31.43 cm x 9.05 cm x 1.43 cm)

Credit Line
Gift of Denise Miner Stanford

Subject matter
Although the exact origins of this knife are not known, it is possibly from a region within Central Africa. Similarly shaped knifes are often described as 'throwing knives'. However, knives with this previous function are not limited to Central Africa; forms also vary across the region and across the continent. Knives with a sickle-shaped blade that widens near the top into a triangular shape and a wooden handle have been noted as ceremonial objects, while knives with heavier blades (of the same shape) and hide-covered handles have been described as throwing knives. In some cases, throwing knives were used as currency. 

References Cited: 
McNaughton, Pat R. 1970. “The Throwing Knife in African History.” African Arts, Vol. 3, No. 2: 54-60+89.

Physical Description
A knife with a long, curved blade and a handle terminating in a semi-circular shape. 

Primary Object Classification
Arms and Armor

Primary Object Type
knife

Collection Area
African

Rights
If you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit http://umma.umich.edu/request-image for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form. Keywords
knife currency (general currency)
symbols of office or status
weapons