Accession Number
1998/1.61

Title
Short Sword

Artist(s)
Mbun

Artist Nationality
Mbun

Object Creation Date
20th century

Medium & Support
iron and wood

Dimensions
31 5/16 in x 3 3/4 in x 1 7/16 in (79.5 cm x 9.5 cm x 3.7 cm)

Credit Line
Gift of Susan B. and John F. Ullrich

Subject matter
In Central Africa, metal swords were used as weapons of warfare and at other times as ceremonial items. The specific function of this sword is unknown. It is distinguished from other Mbun swords in that its hilt is not studded with brass.

Physical Description
This sword has a long blade with a tri-pointed tip. The center of the blade has a ridge running the length of it. The wooden handle has a V-shaped top.

Primary Object Classification
Metalwork

Primary Object Type
sword

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
ceremonial swords
metalwork (visual works)
weaponry
weapons