Sword with Elaborate Sheath and Zoomorphic Handle
Mossi nakomsé, Burkina Faso
Iron, leather, brass, plastic
Mid 20th century

This short sword was probably part of the ceremonial regalia of nakomsé chieftans. The leatherwork includes sections of thin, intricately woven plastic strips, which is reminiscent of Tuareg workmanship. Stylistically, it is not Tuareg, and the figurative handle indicates that it was not the prerogative of the Islamicized Fulani or Songhai.

Published: Roy, Land of the Flying Masks, fig. 25, full color page, pictured below.

23 in :: 58.5 cm

InventoryID #13-1941

SOLD