Ceremonial Sickle Blade, za
Gbaya, Central African Republic
Forged iron, braided 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" (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).

While the hooked top style is uncommon, it is the sharp vertical point on the topbranch that makes this piece exceptional.

Published: Lefebvre, Luc. The Throwing Knives: The Northern Knives. 2019. Plate 176.

26.5 in :: 67 cm

InventoryID #13-931

SOLD