Billao / Belawa Short Sword in Sheath
Somal, Somalia
Iron, goat leather, horn, pewter
Late 19th / early 20th century

This type of short sword, known as billao or belawa, is very subtly asymmetrical. There are two distinct pommel designs - one with a single metal tang projecting from the center, and one with three metal tangs that make the handle resemble a crown. On this example, the solid pewter pommel is particularly large and the horn handle is substantial (Spring, Christopher. African Arms and Armor. 1993).

17.25 in :: 44 cm

InventoryID #13-2337

SOLD