Accession Number
1998/1.82

Title
Knife

Artist(s)

Object Creation Date
20th century

Medium & Support
metal, copper, and wood

Dimensions
19 5/8 in x 3 5/16 in x 1 1/2 in (49.8 cm x 8.4 cm x 3.8 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. However, its lack of embellishments suggests that it was most likely used as a weapon. 

Physical Description
The blade of this sword has an elongated leaf-shaped blade and a short wooden handle. 

Primary Object Classification
Metalwork

Primary Object Type
knife

Collection Area
African

Rights
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Keywords
ceremonial weapons
knife
knife weapons
metalwork (visual works)