African Axe....ceremonial?

[katana]

Found this axe on eBay......probably not functional... as to the inherant weaknesses with 'forked' branches. Carving on the prongs seems to indicate either male/female or two differing status symbols (head piece/hat?).

Any ideas as to Tribe or function???..... I'm guessing that is not a sort of Swiss Army knife.........with an axe/catapult combo.... :D

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=330005730027&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=014

[Freddy]

Great find.

My guess is that it originates from Burkina Faso, probably from the Lobi tribe. Try to look at some Lobi statues. You'll see a resemblance with the two figures on the axe.

A lot of African axes are purely ceremonial. Nevertheless, it's a beauty (in my opinion).

[katana]

Freddy, I am right in saying that the Lobi are well known for their catapults ???

[Freddy]

Yes, you're right. But a combination axe/catapult is new to me. :confused:

[katana]

Freddy ...I was only joking .....but.......