Ceremonial Blade in the form of a Muder Throwing Knife
Fundj (Gule / Hameg / Schankalla), Northern Ingessana, Sudan
Iron, snakeskin, leather, vegetal fiber
Early 20th century

According to records from Hartvig Fleege of Malmö, this old knife, which was a cult or venerable object, served as a symbolic scepter inspired by the famous Muder throwing knife. It was the prerogative of the Funj, also known as Hamedj, Gule, and Shankalla, who live north of the Ingessana (Zirngibl & Kubetz, Panga Na Visu, 2009).

The blade has repeating incising patterns not found on Muder blades and, on the grip - an unusual detail - the butt is partially wrapped in leather. Both sides of the topbranch and crossbar have two circular eyes incised, making them resemble a snake in dorsal view. 

24 in :: 61 cm

InventoryID #13-2910

SOLD