Billao / Belawa Short Sword in Sheath
Somali, Somalia
Iron, goat leather, horn, copper, tin
Late 19th century

This type of short sword, known as billao or belawa, was 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, brass, wood, and tin in interleaved strata, is particularly complex and beautiful (Spring, Christopher. African Arms and Armor. 1993).

16.25 in :: 41 cm

InventoryID #13-1894

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