Mafa Sengese prestige knife from Cameroon first half 20. Century

This authentic Sengese knife is an impressive testament to the blacksmithing art from the border region between Cameroon and Nigeria. The object dates from the middle of the 20. century and served within the Mafa culture less as a throwing weapon, but primarily as a high-ranking prestige symbol and ceremonial hand weapon for adult men. The blade shows a complex shape with two hemispherical curves, which converge in a precise tip, complemented by a prominent, outward-facing barb.

Particularly noteworthy are the detailed ornamentations on the iron. The blade is provided with fine, deeply integrated herringbone patterns and geometric line etchings. These ornaments have a double meaning: They serve on the one hand the personal prestige of the owner and function on the other hand as a kind of signature of the blacksmith, which underlines the craftsmanship and the social position within the community.

The handle is elaborately crafted and shows the traditional material combination of this region. Under the outer cover of light animal skin, which is tanned leather or rawhide, a padding of woven plant fibers is visible, which gives the handle its characteristic volume. For attachment to the body or to the clothing, massive iron loops are integrated at the end of the handle as well as in the middle area. With a considerable size of approx. 54 x 18 cm, the knife is in an excellent collector's condition with an authentic, dark age patina on the metal. Rust spots on the iron; signs of use corresponding to the age.