Blade forms and runaway slaves

Tim Simmons · 24th March 2007, 10:57 AM

Great addition Jim. In the description of the paddles mention is made of a median ridge to add strength which does seem to suggest many have some weight and a varied function most likely. It is the similarity to African blades that is so interesting. The overall shapes, the topography, median ridge and tips we have all seen before many threads on African arms. The actual canoe paddles are more noticeably paddles and of the most exquisite carving.

Wonderful mix of Amerindian and African.

tom hyle · 31st March 2007, 07:27 PM

Remember that certain types of swords traditionally serve as rank markers in Bantu (etc.) society.

Tim Simmons · 1st April 2007, 09:56 AM

Very good point Tom. These could be in that tradition and a substitute for iron which would only be available from your previous masters community. The painted paddles have what looks like some Voodoo iconography. I do not think Voodoo as such if called Voodoo in South America?

24th March 2007, 10:57 AM	#1
Tim Simmons Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: What is still UK Posts: 5,891	Great addition Jim. In the description of the paddles mention is made of a median ridge to add strength which does seem to suggest many have some weight and a varied function most likely. It is the similarity to African blades that is so interesting. The overall shapes, the topography, median ridge and tips we have all seen before many threads on African arms. The actual canoe paddles are more noticeably paddles and of the most exquisite carving. Wonderful mix of Amerindian and African. Last edited by Tim Simmons; 24th March 2007 at 11:13 AM.

1st April 2007, 09:56 AM	#3
Tim Simmons Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: What is still UK Posts: 5,891	Very good point Tom. These could be in that tradition and a substitute for iron which would only be available from your previous masters community. The painted paddles have what looks like some Voodoo iconography. I do not think Voodoo as such if called Voodoo in South America? Last edited by Tim Simmons; 1st April 2007 at 12:38 PM.

31st March 2007, 07:27 PM	#2
tom hyle Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Houston, TX, USA Posts: 1,254	Remember that certain types of swords traditionally serve as rank markers in Bantu (etc.) society.