Tradition for sale

Africa has long held a fascination for the rest of the world. It’s a continent of great contrasts and has managed to resist all attempts to tame it. The climate is largely hot and dry. The landscape is burnt and arid. Except where rainforests cover the land. Due to the climate conditions the people of Africa tend to be nomadic and tribal with very strong ties to their ethnicity. Even the most ardent colonists, with the severest methods of conversion failed to make any African country completely abandon its culture and traditions in favour of western life. The people of Africa are unique and distinct. The way of life in Africa is unlike life anywhere else in the world, and the art and artefacts of the many tribes in Africa are given pride of place in homes all around the world.

Many different traditional African artefacts are sought after by serious collectors as well as tourists and history buffs. Among these pieces are masks, drums, ceremonial beadwork and weapons. Many weapons began as tools of war and later assumed a ceremonial role as brave warriors or kings, through their use, won distinction. Some of the more prized weapons include:

A hand carved wooden Zulu beaded Knob-Kerrie

The Knob-Kerrie was used as a weapon of attack in combination with a shield and spear. It’s about 90cm tall and was used to hit enemies on the head during battle while the shield protected the warrior as he pressed forward. The spear was thrown as a prelude to the charge. In its original form it was plain and unadorned, but the Zulu women began weaving beads onto the shaft in the colours and patterns of the Zulu tribe. There is also a swathe of fur beneath the head of the Knob-Kerrie and at the bottom of the handle.

Nubian Arm Dagger

Many tribes in Eastern and Northern Africa use arm daggers, which are worn under the sleeves, blade up and grip down for easy access. The size of the daggers varies, but each blade is dual edged. The Nubian arm dagger is usually six inches long and is sometimes engraved along the centre line. The grip is made of wood and leather while the scabbard is made of painted leather. A leather loop attaches the grip to the scabbard.

A Traditional beaded Zulu Axe
The axe is made out of a dark and heavy wood with a metal blade placed in the ball head. Traditional tribesmen and women used it. The women wove traditional Zulu patterns into the shaft. As with the Knob-Kerrie, there is a strip of fur under the head and at the bottom of the handle.

Mangbetu Knife
This is an example of a traditional weapon of war that achieved ceremonial status. In a far less glamorous role, it could be used as an agricultural tool. It eventually became a status symbol and sign of wealth. The king of the time, Munza, was often depicted in drawings and statues holding the knife, demonstrating his power and authority.

The African warriors of long ago would probably have a difficult time understanding the current fascination with their tools of the trade. On the other hand perhaps they would understand it perfectly. They took pride in their skills and as some forms of weaponry came to be revered, it would not be such a leap for them to understand the global fascination with their knives, spears and shields. Whatever the ancient warriors’ feelings on the matter, there is no doubt as to the popularity of all things African; a trend that looks set to stay.

Recommended Sites:

http://www.africancraftsmarket.com/Africanweapons.htm

http://www.oriental-arms.co.il/item.php?id=311