Ceremonial Sword and Sheath Udamalore
Yoruba, Nigeria
Iron, wood, glass beads, cotton, vegetal fiber
1900 - 1925

This ceremonial sword and sheath (udamalore) recalls the arts of Owo, an important and ancient Yoruba town. The udamalore was worn by Owo chiefs on the left hip, hung over a belt. A voluminous wrapped skirt, tall miter-shaped hat, brass and ivory pendants and armlets, and a fan-shaped iron sword (of Benin origin) held in the right hand completed the ceremonial attire.

The udamalore is lavishly decorated with brilliantly colored glass beads that are embroidered into symbolic and abstract designs. Imported from Europe, the beads were a sign of wealth and status among the Yoruba. The motifs – human and zoomorphic figures – refer to the protective role of the ancestors, the chief's inalienable powers and privileges, and the mystical forces that protect and strengthen the wearer of such lavish costume ornaments ("Ceremonial Sword and Sheath (Udamalore)," Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2021). 

This example has a curved carved wood element on the interior side designed to make the blade sit comfortably on the hip. 

19.25 in :: 49 cm

InventoryID #13-2276

SOLD