Ceremonial Object Inspired by a Throwing Knife
Margi / Guduf / Lamang / Podoko, Nigeria / Cameroon
Forged iron
Early 20th century

The blacksmiths of the so-called Kirdi peoples of the Mandara Mountains of northern Cameroon and adjacent parts of Nigeria produced this variety of throwing knife, similar to the large F-shaped throwing knives from Chad, but with a strongly developed hook at the end of the crossbar. Too dull and heavy to be useful as a throwing knife, this type was reserved for use as a prestige item, ceremonial instrument, and dancing implement.

This knife comes from a region inhabited by an amalgam of rather small tribes who are called 'Kirdi,' 'Haabé,' and 'Fali,' by their neighbors and adversaries; these terms basically mean 'barbaric pagans,' or 'heathen folk.' The proper names of the tribes who use this knife type Margi, Guduf, Lamang, and Podoko (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).

23 in :: 58 cm

InventoryID #13-552

SOLD