Prestige Machete / Sword in Sheath
Baule, Ivory Coast
Iron, brass, leather
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.

This type, which wears an iron crown atop the handle and displays an asymmetrical blade is a well-documented style, however, very little has been written about it (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003; Zirngibl, "Rare African Short Weapons," 1983).

This example has a blade made of a modified European-manufactured machete and a cast brass / bronze handle, both very uncommon details. 

Weight: 670g

19.25 in :: 49 cm

InventoryID #13-2615

Price on Request