Knife with Sheath and Female Figure
Mossi, Burkina Faso
Wood, iron, leather
Early 20th century

While is has been reported that knives of this type were used for performing animal sacrifices at family altars, the fine embossing on the sheath and the cascading leather fringe certainly suggest that it existed rather for display and symbolism (Roy, Land of the Flying Masks, 2007).

Mounted on a custom display stand, pictured below. 

11.5 in :: 29 cm (not including fringe)

InventoryID #13-1144

SOLD