Flat bronze blade with cut out motif in center and around edges, ivory handle and loop on tope with cluster of twisted iron rods in center.

Ceremonial Sword (Eben)

Maker Edo Artist

Date19th Century

Place of originBenin, Africa

Place of originNigeria, Africa

MediumBrass, iron, ivory, fiber

Dimensions31 × 7 1/2 × 5 in. (78.7 × 19.1 × 12.7 cm)

ClassificationsFurnishings and Equipment

Credit LineGift of Drs. John and Nicole Dintenfass

Object number2016.86.22

Collections

AFRICAN

Visual DescriptionFlat bronze blade with cut out motif in center and around edges, ivory handle and loop on tope with cluster of twisted iron rods in center.

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Forged curved blade with blunt end, and cast brass handle; cut out depiction of a chameleon on the inner curve, and cross cut-out in center of blade, with words engraved above: MK Balogu; Kent I of AL on one side and 23. 9 47 XX MK Balogu AL on the opposite side. Engraved images of fish, serpents and possibly a frog, with borders of small circles. Edge of blade has rings, possible for attaching crotal bells (now missing).

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