TERA Gallery - African Art and Antiquities

"Altering The Way You View The World Of Art"
Type of Object:
    Kirdi Throwing Knife

    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:
    Marghi Society
    Kapsiki Socity

Country of Origin:  
    Cameroon

Material:   
    Iron

Dimensions:
    L31" x w7.5

Reference:            
    Peter Westerdijk, Curator. African Metal Implements
    Weapons, Tools, and Regalia. Collection of Frederick &
    Claire Mebel, Hillwood Art Gallery , Long Island University,
    New York 1984. 48 Pages.  p20 #57

    Roberto Ballarini, Ferrie Monete dell' Africa Equatoriale,
    Galleria Africa Curio-Milano 1998. 37 Pages. 10 - Dikwa
    group, Kirdi people; Mandara Mountains, northern
    Cameroon, West Africa