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Brass Knife with Sheath

Moroccan

Artwork Details

Brass Knife with Sheath
20th century
Moroccan
Brass, silver, wool, and wood
15 3/8 in x 3 15/16 in x 1 in (39.05 cm x 10 cm x 2.54 cm);15 3/8 in x 3 15/16 in x 1 in (39.05 cm x 10 cm x 2.54 cm)
Gift of Denise Miner Stanford
2010/2.8

On Display

Not currently on display

Tags

Description

Subject Matter:

Though the koummya was made in southern Morocco, this and similar daggers form a common part of the attire for men across many parts of North Africa. Daggers are worn on belts around the stomach or slung over the shoulder by means of a baldric. The koummya is worn on the left side, with the baldric slung over the right shoulder.

Reference:
Spring, Christopher. African Arms and Armour. London, UK: British Museum Press, 1993.
 

Physical Description:

This dagger has a metal blade and an elaborately decorated handle. At the end of the handle is a “peacock tail” pommel. Accompanying the dagger is a silver sheath with a tasseled, black woolen baldric. 

Usage Rights:

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