Dagger in Sheath
Manding (Mandingo), Liberia
Iron, wood, leather, brass, copper
Late 19th / early 20th century

The Mandingo are an ancient culture spread across West Africa, from Guinea to Niger. A migratory Islamic culture, they are famous for their ornate leatherwork, seen here. Their blades are simple and symmetrical, yet executed with precision (Spring, African Arms and Armor, 1993; Tirri, Islamic and Native Weapons of Colonial Africa, 2007; Zirngibl & Kubetz, Panga Na Visu, 2009).

This dagger was collected by Julius Konietzko in 1930 (See photograph below; Inventory number A.VIII.2).

13.875 :: 35 cm

InventoryID #13-2704

SOLD