Billao / Belawa Short Sword
Somali, Somalia
Iron, ivory, leather, silver, brass, wood
Early 20th century

This type of short sword was known as billao or belawa. There were two distinct pommel designs - one with a single metal tang projecting from the center (like this example), and one with three metal tangs that make the handle resemble a crown (Spring, Christopher. African Arms and Armor. 1993).

18.25 in :: 46.5 cm

InventoryID #13-1884

SOLD