M ELEY
4th December 2009, 12:44 PM
A West African short sword, possibly Dahomey or Maghreb region, 19th century. Overall length is 21" with 17" blade. Hilt is wood with cool-looking spiral tin? pewter? strapwork. Just looks like it belongs in the belt of a Slaver.
Pics don't do it justice in showing the age (metal is patinaed and matches a Victorian pewter mug I own). Wood is likewise worn with some of the strapwork missing, but blade is TIGHT. I like it, but it doesn't match with my collection, so...bought it for $125, am asking $115 (plus $10 shipping). Would make a nice holiday gift (but not a stocking stuffer- :D )
Pics don't do it justice in showing the age (metal is patinaed and matches a Victorian pewter mug I own). Wood is likewise worn with some of the strapwork missing, but blade is TIGHT. I like it, but it doesn't match with my collection, so...bought it for $125, am asking $115 (plus $10 shipping). Would make a nice holiday gift (but not a stocking stuffer- :D )