TERA Gallery - African Art and Antiquities "Altering The Way You View The World Of Art" |
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| THROWING KNIFE |
| The throwing knife has developed from a primitive weapon to one of the most beautiful weapons. These "throwing knife" forms were recognized and used sa currency. The great tribal migrations over many centuries and in many directions have all contributed to design changes. The oldest type is found in the Sahel, in North Cameroon. These simple, functional weapons are thrown sidearm, and rotate around their centre of gravity. They usually have two piercing spikes. Some of the knives are still used by African men as both weapons and ornamentation. Knives, axes, currency blades and spears, most made of forged iron, attest to the skills in metal of the blacksmiths of many traditional African peoples. Most exhibit an inventive variety of form and workmanship far beyond what was functionally necessary. Some functioned as weapons. Many , however, were solely for ceremonial or ritual use, or displayed for prestige or status. The largest selections also served as currency, with forms made in the style of weapons, but not functional. All of these are as we obtained them. Many of the currencies, especially, are 19th C. and will exhibit some rust or erosion. Some collectors and dealers prefer the knives highly cleaned, even ground down to the raw metal, then polished. This can be done to any of our knives but it is not a reversible process and we do not do it. |