The Ashanti State Sword, commonly referred to as the Mponponsuo type, stands among the most symbolically charged...
African Swords
African swords have a rich history that spans centuries, playing important roles in the cultures, warfare, and symbolism of various African societies. These swords were not only tools of combat but also often held spiritual, ceremonial, and social significance. Different regions of Africa developed distinct sword-making traditions, with unique styles, materials, and designs that reflected the local environment, craftsmanship, and martial needs.
The iklwa is one of the most recognisable weapons in African military history. Short, broad bladed and...
The Mongo iron sword refers to a group of Central African bladed weapons associated with Mongo speaking...
The straight swords associated with the Fatimid world sit at an interesting crossroads. They belong to a...
The Fulani sword is a distinctive West African blade associated with the Fulɓe people, a pastoralist culture...
The Takouskara sits among the lesser known blades of North Africa, yet it tells a story that...
The Chokwe people of central and southern Africa produced some of the most distinctive edged weapons on...
The functional battle sword of the old Kingdom of Dahomey was built for close combat, not ceremony....
The Benin bronze hilt sword belongs to the ceremonial world of the Kingdom of Benin. These pieces...
The Yoruba Ogboni sword sits in an unusual place within West African material culture. It is not...