Africa

African edged weapons cover an immense range of forging traditions across the continent. This collection includes Ethiopian gurade and shotel swords, the sickle-shaped blade unique to the Horn of Africa; Sahelian takouba swords from West Africa's savanna kingdoms; and the distinctive throwing knives and ceremonial blades of Central Africa, carried as much for rank and ritual as for combat.

Each piece reflects the metalworking traditions of its people — from the engraved throwing irons of the Ingessana to the ceremonial swords of royal courts in Benin and the Congo. Hilts, sheaths and blade profiles vary enormously by region and ethnic group, making African arms one of the most diverse fields for the serious collector.