Ceremonial Blade inspired by a Throwing Knife, chichawa
Ga'anda, Nigeria
Iron
First half of the 20th century

This staff, forged to replicate the form of an F-shaped throwing knife, is covered with patterns drawn from the Thleta scarification program that all Ga'anda women underwent as a prerequisitie to marriage. This blade was used in community festivals called Yoxiiwa, wherein they were carried by Sabta initiates who rhythmically pounded them into the ground to contribute to the sacred soundscape. When the initiates performed, the sounds aroused the attention of the spirits whose blessings were sought and that signified the responsibilities and aspirations of social belonging (Roberts, Allen F., Joyce, Tom, and Berns, Marla C., editors. Striking Iron: The Art of African Blacksmiths. 2019"). 

27.5 in :: 70 cm

InventoryID #13-595

SOLD