Just a new takouba

[Iain]

Not the most exciting one. But a nice decorative motif on the guard.

[Tim Simmons]

The guard appears to be Bida style.

[Jim McDougall]

As always, outstanding example Iain!!
Would you mind saying again the significance of wider blades in tribal protocol?
It seems some of these had ridiculously wide blades.

Tim, what is meant by 'Bida' other than the tribal name obviously? other examples?

[Tim Simmons]

Bida, a town and centre of manufactures of all kinds, a regional hub.

[Iain]

Hi Tim and Jim,

Thanks for the comments.

Yes I agree this is likely Hausa or Nupe work. Bida is a strong possibility. They were known best for brass work.

These wide blades seem to be some kind of status symbol, at least in the extreme examples. This particular one is not nearly as wide as some. But the triangular shape with the rapid taper probably makes it look wider than it is in the photos.

[colin henshaw]

Hi Iain

Nice sword, I like the clean lines and form. Is the blade made of imported sheet iron or locally made ?

Regards.

[Iain]

Hi Iain

Nice sword, I like the clean lines and form. Is the blade made of imported sheet iron or locally made ?

Regards.

Good question, the surface texture is quite odd on most of these wide blades and unlike other blades I've found. A lot of surface pitting is usual. Frankly I'm not 100% sure of the steel source. Local I would have guessed but I could be wrong!