The Shotel is the traditional sword of the Abyssinian (Ethiopia). It looks like a huge sickle, with a long blade deeply curved almost to half circle. The purpose of this very awkward blade is to strike over or around the shield of an opponent. This fine exemplar has a finely forged blade, 29 Inches long, (point to point) with a pronounced central rib on its entire length. The hilt is made of three sectors of light colored horn with an engraved dome shaped silver pommel cover. The scabbard is tooled leather mounted with silver bands and long silver chape, all finely engraved. Total length 34 ½ inches. Very good condition. It is probably dated to the late 19th C.