Accession Number
1998/1.116

Title
Throwing knife

Artist(s)
Matakam

Artist Nationality
Matakam

Object Creation Date
20th century

Medium & Support
metal, leather and fiber

Dimensions
21 7/16 in x 9 1/16 in (54.4 cm x 23 cm)

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

Subject matter
The ancestors of the Matakam (or "Kirdi") used this throwing knife in their capacity as warriors and horsemen. It was balanced against the shoulder during warfare, ready for use. More recently, Matakam blacksmiths have developed heavier versions of the sengese. No longer effective for throwing because of its weight, the twentieth century version is mostly a hand-held weapon. It can also be seen carried by Matakam men on public occasions as a prestige implement. 

Physical Description
This throwing-knife has a long shaft with a leather-wrapped handle. It is comprised of two blades. One blade forms a large hook at the top of the weapon and a small blade protrudes in the opposite direction, just below the first blade. There are small incised patterns along the edge of the blades. The hooked blade also has a ridged, slightly raised center.  

Primary Object Classification
Metalwork

Primary Object Type
knife

Collection Area
African

Rights
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Keywords
ceremonial costume
knife
metalwork (visual works)
throwing knives