Sword of the Manding (Mandingo), West Sahara, Africa - 6528
The Manding (Mandingo) are West African people that now live in Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, and Senegal. Their traditional sword comprises a saber like blade (usually of French or other European origin), guard less leather grip and scabbard with exquisite leather work. We offer here for sale such a sword. 22 inches long curved blade of somewhat crude forging, leather grip and leather scabbard with leaf shaped widening tip, entirely tooled and decorated. Of special interest are the tassel and harnesses and the big round leather knobs with colorful plaited leather strips. Total length 29 inches. Very good condition. Some damage to the leather work and missing tassels. All in all a very attractive piece at a very reasonable price. |