Knife
Gbaya
Description
Subject Matter:
Although the exact origins of this knife are not known, it could possibly have been made by Gbaya peoples who live in what is today Cameroon and the Central African Republic. Similarly shaped knifes are often described as 'throwing knives'. However, knives with this previous function are not limited to Central Africa; forms also vary across the region and across the continent. Knives with a sickle-shaped blade that widens near the top into a triangular shape and a wooden handle have been noted as ceremonial objects, while knives with heavier blades—of the same shape—and hide-covered handles have been described as throwing knives. In some cases, throwing knives were used as currency.
References Cited:
McNaughton, Pat R. 1970. “The Throwing Knife in African History.” African Arts, Vol. 3, No. 2: 54-60+89.
Physical Description:
Metal blade with wooden handle. The metal blade is long and narrow and triangular at its end point. The wooden handle is split down the middle. Only one side of the blade has been decorated with long incisions. There is a small hole in the center of the triangular section of the blade.
Usage Rights:
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