Hatchet / Prestige Object
Jukun, Nigeria
Wood, forged iron
Early 20th century

This double-tanged axe is often attributed to the Hausa or the Benue people of Nigeria. The semi-circular blade is slot-shafted: the tangs of the metal blade are inserted through the wooden haft.

This is a superb example of the type; the thick iron bands are an unusual, ostentatious detail. Small damage (wood) near the top piece and (iron) lower on the handle. A comparable example with an early collection date can be found in the Berlin Ethnologisches Museum, here.

Mounted on a custom display stand, pictured below. 

 

21.5 in :: 55 cm

InventoryID #13-521

SOLD