Basakpwa Short Sword in Sheath
Yakoma, Central African Republic
Forged iron, wood, copper, striking monitor skin
1880-1920

The basakpwa knife was danced during initiations and carried in parades, worn by the old and the rich. It was made by the Yakoma (who are sometimes considered a subgroup of the Ngbandi), who were the most renowned blacksmiths in the region (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003).

Published: Lefebvre, Ngbandi Yakoma, 2017, plate 158.

Exhibited: Âmes de formes. Formes de Lames. 5-31 Dec. 2009, Voyageurs du Monde, Lille.

15.5 in :: 39.5 cm

InventoryID #13-1204

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