Old African dagger of the Yoruba - Yoruba - Nigeria (No reserve price)
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Selected by Dimitri André
Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
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Old African Yoruba dagger with sheath from Nigeria in West Africa, dating to the early 20th century, with a forged iron blade and a carved bone or patinated hardwood grip depicting Yoruba facial features, a boombast sheath adorned with cowrie shells and a small wooden mask, weighing 310 g, 33 cm high and 14 cm wide, authentic/original and in good condition, provenance Antiekmarkt.
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Description from the seller
Tribal dagger and sheath – West Africa (Yoruba style)
This lot concerns a tribal knife and an ornamented sheath, originating from West Africa and stylistically attributed to Yoruba culture (Nigeria). Both objects are in original, used condition with signs of age and patina.
1. Dagger with carved grip:
• The blade is made of wrought iron, broad, widening into a leaf shape, and shows clear signs of oxidation and manual workmanship.
• The grip is made of carved bone or patinated hardwood, shaped as a human head with the facial features and headdress characteristic of Yoruba art.
2. Sheath
• A triangular piece of boombast, with two rows of sewn-on cowrie shells (Cypraeidae). These shells historically served in this region as currency and a symbol of status.
• In the center of the sheath is a small wooden mask mounted. The piece is equipped with a functional carrying cord.
Materials and condition:
• Materials: Wrought iron, carved bone/wood, boombast, cord, cowrie shells.
• Origin: Nigeria / West Africa.
• Condition: Authentic, unrestored state. The materials show natural wear, drying spots and material discoloration consistent with age. See the attached detail photos for an accurate assessment.
Tribal dagger and sheath – West Africa (Yoruba style)
This lot concerns a tribal knife and an ornamented sheath, originating from West Africa and stylistically attributed to Yoruba culture (Nigeria). Both objects are in original, used condition with signs of age and patina.
1. Dagger with carved grip:
• The blade is made of wrought iron, broad, widening into a leaf shape, and shows clear signs of oxidation and manual workmanship.
• The grip is made of carved bone or patinated hardwood, shaped as a human head with the facial features and headdress characteristic of Yoruba art.
2. Sheath
• A triangular piece of boombast, with two rows of sewn-on cowrie shells (Cypraeidae). These shells historically served in this region as currency and a symbol of status.
• In the center of the sheath is a small wooden mask mounted. The piece is equipped with a functional carrying cord.
Materials and condition:
• Materials: Wrought iron, carved bone/wood, boombast, cord, cowrie shells.
• Origin: Nigeria / West Africa.
• Condition: Authentic, unrestored state. The materials show natural wear, drying spots and material discoloration consistent with age. See the attached detail photos for an accurate assessment.
Details
Number of objects
1
Ethnic group/ culture
Yoruba
Country of Origin
Nigeria
Period
Early 20th century
Material
Shell, Steel, Wood
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Old African dagger of the Yoruba
Height
33 cm
Width
14 cm
Weight
310 g
Provenance
Antique market
Authenticity
Original/official
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