Throwing knife
Matakam
Description
Subject Matter:
The ancestors of the Matakam (or "Kirdi") used this throwing knife in their capacity as warriors and horsemen. It was balanced against the shoulder during warfare, ready for use. More recently, Matakam blacksmiths have developed heavier versions of the sengese. No longer effective for throwing because of its weight, the twentieth century version is mostly a hand-held weapon. It can also be seen carried by Matakam men on public occasions as a prestige implement.
Physical Description:
This throwing-knife has a long shaft with a leather-wrapped handle. It is comprised of two blades. One blade forms a large hook at the top of the weapon and a small blade protrudes in the opposite direction, just below the first blade. There are small incised patterns along the edge of the blades. The hooked blade also has a ridged, slightly raised center.
Usage Rights:
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