Accession Number
1998/1.112

Title
Short sword

Artist(s)

Object Creation Date
20th century

Medium & Support
metal, brass, and wood

Dimensions
22 1/2 in x 4 3/16 in x 2 1/8 in (57.2 cm x 10.7 cm x 5.4 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 slits and tapers in its design suggest that it was not used for warfare. 

Physical Description
The blade of this sword tapers in three places, forming four sections. The second and third sections are prominent; the second section has triangular edges and the third section has rounded edges. The first three sections also have open slits down their centers. The wooden handle is wrapped in copper wire. 

Primary Object Classification
Metalwork

Primary Object Type
sword

Collection Area
African

Rights
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Keywords
ceremonial swords
ceremonial weapons
metalwork (visual works)
weaponry