Large Prestige Knife in Sheath
Baule, Ivory Coast
Iron, wood, leather
Late 19th / early 20th century

Baule prestige blades were renowned for their balanced, harmonious design, expert forging, and lavish decoration. To increase their potency, these weapons were subjected to a sacrificial consecration on the anvil by the blacksmith, in the presence of the customer (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003; Zirngibl, Rare African Short Weapons, 1983).

This example is unusually large, with an elaborately-decorated leather sheath, and a handle with finely-carved details and a leather cap. The origin of the inventory number painted on the sheath is unknown. 

20.875 in :: 53 cm

InventoryID #13-2852

Price on Request