Two more African Axes for comment

[kahnjar1]

Just received these 2 which I believe are from Tanzania and likely the Nyamwezi people.
They are very similar but slightly different carving on the hafts.
All comments welcome.
Stu

[rickystl]

Hi Stu

Having zero knowledge of central/south African weapons and tools, a question:

What do you think is the reason for the upward curve of the rear portion of the axe blade ? Do you think it would have been sharpened like a knife for different cutting purposes than the axe bit portion ? Just curious.

Rick

[Bob A]

Being at least equally ignorant of the subject, I'd say the purpose was twofold: first, it would be suitable for thrusting, in a situation where a swing would be difficult or too time-consuming; and second, it fulfills the needs of the African aesthetic - these are really beautiful designs, after all.

[kahnjar1]

I doubt that the upturned side is designed as a cutting blade as all I have seen are blunt edged and the tips are rounded. Just the style I think.
There are other African axe types which also have a protrusion opposite the blade, which appears to be just the design
Stu