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Throwing Knife

Bangi

Artwork Details

Throwing Knife
20th century
Bangi
metal and leather
16 15/16 in x 13 3/4 in (43 cm x 35 cm)
Gift of Susan B. and John F. Ullrich
1998/1.87

Description

Subject Matter:

Throwing knives have been used across many regions of Central Africa, though they are no longer used as weapons. Aside from their previous function as weapons, throwing knives were—and in some cases, still are—used as prestige objects. Throwing knife shaped blades were also 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:

Knife with a leather wrapped handle and three perpendicular blades. The blades are covered with a pattern of small, incised dots. 

Usage Rights:

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