Rare Long Dagger of the Baboute / Vute tribe

The Baboute Tribe, also known as Bute Wute or Vute, resides in the southern forest region of Cameroon. Their sword is quite scarce, of a simple cross shape with simple flat cross guard and flattened disk shaped pommel. The grip is bound with leather or bands of natural fibers.

The example shown below is in the size of a long dagger (or short sword), with a 19 inches blade, iron cross guard, flat disk pommel and grip bound with braided leather strips. Interesting are the two lead inserts in the tip of the blade, which suggest the early age of this sword. Total length 25 inches. Good condition.

Shown below also and old photo of the Baboute people. The man at the left is wearing a longer sword with a similar pommel (Courtesy of Mauro Coltorti).