Opinions on a Takouba

katana · 11th May 2006, 09:50 AM

The use of non ferrous metals (brass and copper) as a magical Talisman to ward off evil or to counteract the 'unclean' iron/steel is indeed interesting.
Aluminium found its way into many African cultures in the early 20C. Was this metal seen in the same light.... I wonder.

Logically, the answer is surely yes, its silvery colour, its corrosion resistance and its workability must have made an impact.
I have never seen a Takouba with aluminium covered hilts or handles, but I have seen examples of weapons both ceremonial and 'useable' that are adorned or embellished with aluminium.

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11th May 2006, 09:50 AM	#17
katana Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Kent Posts: 2,658	The use of non ferrous metals (brass and copper) as a magical Talisman to ward off evil or to counteract the 'unclean' iron/steel is indeed interesting. Aluminium found its way into many African cultures in the early 20C. Was this metal seen in the same light.... I wonder. Logically, the answer is surely yes, its silvery colour, its corrosion resistance and its workability must have made an impact. I have never seen a Takouba with aluminium covered hilts or handles, but I have seen examples of weapons both ceremonial and 'useable' that are adorned or embellished with aluminium.