This description has been translated and may not be completely accurate. Click here to see the original
CEREMONIAL SWORD Eben
Edo culture, Kingdom of Benin, Nigeria
End of the 19th century – beginning of the 20th century
Iron
H.: 89.5; L.: 17.5 cm
Important sword with a stylized fan-shaped blade, symmetrically perforated in a geometric design. The fusee is in ivory carved in a twisted manner, the pommel openworked in a large oval ring with four diamond-cut sides.
These swords were the regalia of dignitaries on the occasion of annual festivals in honor of ancestors.
Bibliography:
A similar copy is reproduced in the work The art of Benin, Plate 18, n°318.
Illustrative photographs: Museum Talk and Chief Francis Edo Osagie, Benin City, Nigeria, circa 1960, Chief S.O. © Alonge Collection.
Text and photos © FCP CORIDON
Ref. : 4376
Ref: JS8JTYODN3