Artemis Gallery
Mid-20th C. African Baule Iron & Wood Knife w/ Shells
Product Description
West Africa, Cote d'Ivoire, Baule peoples, ca. mid-20th century CE. A fine example of a forged-iron knife with a broad blade face, a shallow midrib, pointed shoulder fins, and sharpened edges that taper to a pointed tip. The hand-carved wooden hilt and hand guard are studded with several decorative brass pins, and the hilt has a knob-form pommel that is easy to grip. The leather sheath is sewn along the verso to enclose the blade housing, and nine red-and-white shell halves are attached to the front. Knives like this example were used during important ceremonies as prestige items to show the wealth and spiritual potency of one's family.
Condition: Repairs to wooden hand guard and hilt, with light adhesive residue along break lines. Slight bending to overall form of blade, with several stable hairline fissures to wooden hand guard and hilt, minor nicks and abrasions to wooden and shell components, with age-commensurate desiccation to leather sheath. Light earthen deposits and nice patina throughout.
Product Details
- Materials
Iron, Wood, Shell
- OriginWest Africa
— Provenance: Private Glendale, Arizona, USA Collection, Collected From 1970 To 2000
— Includes Custom Stand & Certificate Of Authenticity
— Dimensions (With Sheath): 5.2"W x 16.25"H (17.375"H On Stand)
— 11.4"L Blade
— Weight: 5 lb
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14
Shipping Information
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Shipping AvailabilityCanada, United States
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Shipping PolicyStandard Ground Shipping
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Ship In3-4 weeks ⓘ
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Return PolicyFinal sale, not eligible for return or cancellation
Size Chart
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