Ceremonial Sickle Blade, za
Gbaya, Central African Republic
Iron, vegetal fiber, copper, brass
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" (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).

Published: Rider, 100 African Blades Vol. 2, 2023, Plate 51. 

28.75 in :: 73 cm

InventoryID #13-2298

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