Asymmetrical Dagger in Sheath, Gilê
Danakil, Afar, Issa, Ethiopia / Djibouti
Iron, wood, leather, brass, silver
Late 19th / early 20th century

It is easy to see in the weapons of Lowland Ethiopia and Somalia reflections of both Christian Highland Ethiopia and, just across the Red Sea, of the Arabian Peninsula and beyond. However, while bearing these parallels in mind, the key to their understanding lies in appreciating their very distinct regional characteristics.

The Danakil and Issa of Djibouti and adjacent areas of Ethiopia and Somalia all wear a dagger, gilê, which, despite some regional variations, is similar in appearance. An asymmetrical blade typically showing an outer bulging edge, the gilê was kept in a sheath often wrapped many times in leather bands and held firm with a buckle (Spring, African Arms and Armor, 1993).

21 in :: 53.5 cm

InventoryID #13-1792

SOLD