Superb iron currency from Africa, Kota weapon Gabon - Nigeria. XIX Century. Kota name: Osele or Musele Fang name: Onzil This is a Kota weapon, but it was also made by the Fang people in similar shapes. It is associated with young people's initiation rites. During their circumcision, they wield the knife, which becomes a symbol of their maturity. The shape of this knife recalls the head of a bird where the cut-out triangle constitutes the eye. It's origin is perhaps linked to throwing knives common in Chad, in the middle of the river Sangha and Upper Ubangi. Size: 41 x 28 x 1.5 cm. Weight: Aprox 2 kgs (for sale with stand). Acquired from a Spanish private collection, R.O in the 80's.