Accession Number
1998/1.106

Title
Throwing knife

Artist(s)
Gbaya

Object Creation Date
20th century

Medium & Support
metal and leather

Dimensions
25 9/16 in x 6 7/8 in (65 cm x 17.5 cm)

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

Subject matter
Because of its heavy weight, this "throwing knife" is a hand weapon that was most likely not used as a missile. Though its precise use is unclear, it most likely served several non-utilitarian purposes: as a fashion accessory in male attire, as a symbol of status and rank, as a dancing implement, or even as an item of exchange. 

Reference:
Spring, Christopher. African Arms and Armor. London, UK: British Museum Press, 1993

Physical Description
This weapon, probably iron, is long and heavy. The narrow shaft has a ‘number seven’-shaped blade at the top. Where the blade and the shaft meet, there is a short blade protruding in the opposite direction of the seven-shaped blade. A small hole is located in the corner of the seven-shaped blade. A very thin ridge running along the edges of the blade outlines its shape. A single ridge runs down the center of the shaft. The handle is wrapped in leather. 

Primary Object Classification
Metalwork

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
ceremonial objects
knife
knife weapons
metalwork (visual works)
ritual objects
throwing knives
worn costume accessories