Belawa Short Sword
Somali, Somalia
Steel, buffalo horn, brass, tin
Late 19th century

This type of short sword, known as belawa, would have originally been carried in a sheath covered in soft, white sheep's leather. There are two distinct pommel designs - one with a single metal tang projecting from the center, and this type, with three metal tangs that make the handle resemble a crown. This type of handle, with horn and steel in interleaved strata, is particularly complex and beautiful (Spring, Christopher. African Arms and Armor. 1993).

This example wears an impression on the back of the handle that reads "Col. John Caswell 1910."

23 in :: 58 cm

InventoryID #13-1409

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