Identify the origin of hatchet.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Originally Posted by Jim McDougall

It is often amazing to see the close similarities and gestalt of many weapons of China, India and Africa, and while seeming to have some sort of connection or influence, they actually are quite independent in most cases.

This 'hatchet' is actually more of a 'chopper' and indeed has certain characteristics of the Bhuj of Gujerat and the Malabar choppers.
Meanwhile, in looking at it , I think of Dahomean (Benin) weapons, and the blade reminds me of the hwi. The copper and linear decoration look very African, probably West African.

Thank you Ibrahiim for the plates and illustrations showing the comparisons, which are compelling.

Thank You Jim for your post....I regret I missed your post as I was out of town... Regards Ibrahiim al Balooshi.

[ariel]

Once I got burnt: mistook Dahomean Hwi for something Nepalese based on the hairpin construction of the blade.
Jim saved me :-)))

Apparently both Buttin and Oldman made the same mistake, so I was in a good company.

Yes, I also think this hatchet is Dahomean ( Benin). They were famous for their bronze.