Accession Number
1998/1.83

Title
Double Sickle Knife

Artist(s)
Mangbetu

Artist Nationality
Mangbetu

Object Creation Date
20th century

Medium & Support
metal and ivory

Dimensions
10 5/8 in x 6 1/2 in (27 cm x 16.5 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, the double sickle design suggests that it was most likely not used for warfare.

Physical Description
This elaborate sword has a short main shaft that splits at its end into two opposite directions, forming two blades that curve slightly downward. In the middle of the shaft are two small stems that curve upward with leaf-life formations at their tips. The handle is ivory. On one side of the blade is the following inscription: FOROVRO. On the other side is: ODRUFA

Primary Object Classification
Metalwork

Primary Object Type
knife

Collection Area
African

Rights
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Keywords
ceremonial weapons
inscriptions
knife
metalwork (visual works)