Dagger in Sheath, Omukondo
Ovambo / Kwanyama / Lwena / Lovale, Angola / Namibia / Zambia
Wood, iron, brass, copper, copper and iron nails
Late 19th / early 20th century

Daggers of this type, which are carried in a sheath with an open front that shows the iron blade inside, are called omukonda. They were the prerogative primarily of the Ovambo, but also other cultures across southern Angola, Namibia, and Zambia (Zirngibl & Kubetz, Panga Na Visu, 2009).

The special characteristics of Ovambo knives are the open-fronted sheath and the inverted “T” at the bottom. The latter serves no functional purpose, but is variously said to represent the locally significant large golden hawk or ox horns. The window in the sheath, attractivily revealing a flashing blade, was necessary to create a thin cavity in a solid piece of wood instead of the two slats of wood tied together that are more common in African wood sheaths (Ginzberg, African Forms, 2000).

This piece is decorated with four wide metal bands alternating in brass and copper, an old inventory number, and signs of significant use, particularly around the hole on the back, from which the dagger was undoubtedly hung for many years.

The painted inventory number 77283 is from Max Willborg, London / Stockholm (1933 - 2001). 

16.625 in :: 42 cm

InventoryID #13-1876

Price on Request