Unusual Arab Islamic African sword with inscription

Iain · 6th December 2010, 04:50 AM

I'm struck by the resemblance with Tebu short swords. The scabbard suspension is clearly Chadic/Sudanese.

Is the hilt iron with one piece construction between guard and pommel? Something of the design resembles Mandingo pommels.

The decorative style of the blad conforms to various Chadic groups, similar line designs around the edges can be seen on Chadic daggers. I like the profile of the blade, better geometry than I was expecting.

Hopefully someone can get something out of the inscription. I have seen references to short swords in Nigeria and the Bornu region but never really seen one to compare this with.

A lovely piece, I'm officially intrigued.

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6th December 2010, 04:50 AM	#3
Iain Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Olomouc Posts: 1,717	I'm struck by the resemblance with Tebu short swords. The scabbard suspension is clearly Chadic/Sudanese. Is the hilt iron with one piece construction between guard and pommel? Something of the design resembles Mandingo pommels. The decorative style of the blad conforms to various Chadic groups, similar line designs around the edges can be seen on Chadic daggers. I like the profile of the blade, better geometry than I was expecting. Hopefully someone can get something out of the inscription. I have seen references to short swords in Nigeria and the Bornu region but never really seen one to compare this with. A lovely piece, I'm officially intrigued.