What kind of weapon is that?

[stekemest]

Hi all,

Can anyone point me to the origin of this weapon? What is it and where is it from?
Sorry for the bad picture, I'll deliever better ones soon.

Thanks,
Peter

[Luc LEFEBVRE]

It looks like a Shona knife from Zimbabwe.

[Jim McDougall]

It looks like a Shona knife from Zimbabwe.

Thank you Luc, as always your expertise in these African edged weapons is reflected in your quick and concise response. Would it be possible to key in on what particular characteristics identify this as Shona and that region?
Not questioning of course, but would like to add to my own notes as well as help readers to recognize the distinction.

Best regards,
Jim

[Iain]

Thank you Luc, as always your expertise in these African edged weapons is reflected in your quick and concise response. Would it be possible to key in on what particular characteristics identify this as Shona and that region?
Not questioning of course, but would like to add to my own notes as well as help readers to recognize the distinction.

Best regards,
Jim

The wood hilt and scabbard style are fairly distinctive Jim. As is the use of wire work, they are known locally as bakatwa and are ceremonial in nature. As I understand it knives/swords for daily use among the Shona are known as banga.

I do wonder though if other neighboring groups don't use these as well. They are invariably IDed as Shona, but perhaps this is the same as 'Massai' spears and 'Tuareg' takoubas.

[stekemest]

Thank you very much! :)

What do you think about the knife's age? (mid 20th c?)

Thanks,
Peter

[Sajen]

Here some threads.

http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=16775&highlight=shona
http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=10781&highlight=shona
http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=10087&highlight=shona
http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=3619&highlight=shona
http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=1060&highlight=shona

I think there you will find some informations.

Regards,

Detlef

[Jim McDougall]

The wood hilt and scabbard style are fairly distinctive Jim. As is the use of wire work, they are known locally as bakatwa and are ceremonial in nature. As I understand it knives/swords for daily use among the Shona are known as banga.

I do wonder though if other neighboring groups don't use these as well. They are invariably IDed as Shona, but perhaps this is the same as 'Massai' spears and 'Tuareg' takoubas.

Thank you so much Iain! I guess I must be addicted to information :) and these kinds of details for me add dimension to the piece I am viewing. Its always a plus when discussion develops and others add additional details, examples and data....so that those (like me:) not as familiar with certain weapons can learn about them.
Detlef, thank you as well for the links.