Bidspirit auction | A RARE AFRICAN SWORD

A RARE AFRICAN SWORD - Baule People, Ivory Coast. Of characteristic for, the stepped and fretted hilt carved of wood with spherical pommel, the handwrought leaf-shaped blade ridged. In its hide sheath set with rare heirloom spiny oyster shells retained by hide strips, typically carried by men of prestige and importance. 19th century or earlier. Well worn overall. Overall length 45cm./ 17 ¾ inches.