Curved Short Sword in Sheath
Kru / Grebo / Dan / Ngere, Liberia / Ivory Coast
Copper, wood, leather
19th century

Numerous examples of this very distinct knife were photographed and collected on the border of Liberia and the Ivory Coast. Most are attributed to the Kru of Liberia, but Blandin reports collecting examples in western Ivory Coast, near the Liberian border. While little information about meaning and function was recorded, photographs show these knives being conspicuously brandished (Blandin, Fer Noir, 1992; Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003; Zirngibl & Kubetz, Panga Na Visu, 2009).

Few examples with an intact sheath remain; this is the only copper-bladed known. 

Acquired by the Art Institute of Chicago in 2024. Gift of Bobbi Hamill and Matthew Mrachek. 2024.361a-b. Viewable here. 

Published: Rider, 100 African Blades, Vol. 2, 2023, Plate 2. 

24.5 in :: 62 cm

InventoryID #13-1870

SOLD