Arm Dagger and Tweezers in Sheath
Fur / Nuba / Bedja / Barabra / Hadendoa, Sudan
Iron, wood, leather, snake skin, silver
Early 20th century

Knives of this type were widely used by numerous cultures throughout Sudan and attributing them to one specific group can be problematic. They were commonly found among the Fur and Nuba. Many found their way into distant areas via a system of long distance trade by caravans, ending up far to the east in Somalia and far to the west in Nigeria. 

The knife was worn on the outside of the upper arm, handle pointing downwards, and grabbed with the opposite hand (Fischer & Zirngibl, Afrikanische Waffen, 1978; Sparks, “Arab Knife,” Southern Sudan Project, 2005; Westerdijk, African Metal Implements, 1984; Zirngibl & Kubetz, Panga Na Visu, 2009).

This example has two tweezers inserted into the front of the sheath. This was apparently fairly commonplace, but finding examples with intact tweezers now is difficult. Each set of tweeers is unique and artistically sculpted with geometric designs. 

12.25 in :: 31 cm

InventoryID #13-2352

SOLD