Billao / Belawa Short Sword in Sheath
Somali, Somalia
Iron, goat leather, horn, copper
Early 20th century

This type of short sword, known as billao or belawa, would have originally been carried in a sheath covered in soft, white sheep's leather. There are two distinct pommel designs - one with a single metal tang projecting from the center, and this type, with three metal tangs that make the handle resemble a crown. This type of handle, with horn and steel in interleaved strata, is particularly complex and beautiful (Spring, Christopher. African Arms and Armor. 1993).

15.25 in :: 39 cm

InventoryID #13-1459

SOLD