Short Sword in Sheath
Bali / Kom / Bamenda, Cameroon
Iron, wood, leather, vegetal fiber
19th century

This short sword in sheath is a well-documented type, but unfortunately, there isn't much information about its original meaning or function.

The maker's mark on the blade seems to indicate a British origin referencing Queen Victoria (reigned 1837 - 1901): "V" is for "Victoria and "R" is for "Regina," which means Queen. 

According to a card attached to one of these blades collected in 1861, it was the prerogative of a chief: This sword (also charm worn around the neck) was taken from a chief killed in action, 25 March 1861 (Chalkwell Auctions, 31 Jan 2024, Lot 493).  

 

20.25 in 51.5 cm

InventoryID #13-2432

SOLD