TERA Gallery - African Art and Antiquities

"Altering The Way You View The World Of Art"
Type of Object:
    Fang Throwing Knife Currency
    19th - 20th c.

    The "throwing knife" developed from simple, functional tools
    into one of the most beautiful weapons.  The great
    migrations of African people over many centuries and in
    many directions have all contributed to these design
    changes.  The oldest type is found in the Sahel, in North
    Cameroon.  

    These weapons are thrown sidearm, and rotate around their
    center of gravity.  They usually have two piercing spikes.  
    Some of the knives are still used by African men as both
    weapons and ornamentation.
      
    These "throwing Knife" forms were recognized and used as
    currency.

Ethnic Group:
    Fang Societty
    Ngbaka Society
    Ngombe Society


Country of Origin:  
    Gabon
    Congo
    Central Africa


Material:   
    Iron


Dimensions:


Reference:       
    Roberto Ballarini, Ferrie Monete dell' Africa Equatoriale,
    Galleria Africa Curio-Milano 1998. Pages 37. p12   (Koma,
    Masa peoples; Chad (?))