TERA Gallery - African Art and Antiquities

"Altering The Way You View The World Of Art"
Type of Object:
    Matakam Throwing Knife
    aka Sengese Currency

    Like many throwing knives, these have evolved into prestige
    weapons. This type may be carried over the shoulder.

    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:
    Matakam Society


Country of Origin:  
    Cameroon
    Chad
    Nigeria

Material:   
    Iron

Dimensions:

Reference: