Ceremonial Sickle Blade, za
Gbaya, Central African Republic
Iron, leather
Early 20th century

Despite exhibiting every characteristic of a throwing knife, the za was typically carried over the shoulder, and was reserved for use as a hand weapon, a bush knife, and in ceremony. Awesomely, Westerdijk explains that Gbaya blades were "carried for swagger."

This style of za is known by some Gbaya groups as the cock's comb (in reference to the shape of the top branch), and is regarded by all Gbaya as the true and original za. While there are many sources that describe this blade type as a throwing knife or handweapon, its extravagance, delicate composition, dull edges, imbalance, and flamboyance testify to its purpose purely as a symbol of status. Indeed, the elaborately incised stem alludes to its purpose as purely a symbol of prestige (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).

26.5 in :: 67 cm

InventoryID #13-1019

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