From the collection of: Jean-Paul Cazes

Attribution

Perhaps Mandara regions, second half of the 20th century.

Comments

A pair of near identical possibly Mandara region swords from the 20th century. These are light bladed examples with native blades made from available steel and not forged. The triple fullers are ground and imitations of the half moon marks are present.

The pommels follows what may be a Mandara region variation of the takouba with a domed pommel comprised of two iron halves and a raised tang nub forming a spike. The guards and grips are leather covered.

While these swords are not very old they show an interesting subtype of the takouba that is quite distinct.

Measurements

Total length : A - 87,8 cm. B - 83,4 cm
Blade : A - 73 cm x max. 3,6 cm x 0,35 cm.
B – 70,3 x 4 x 0,32 cm
Weight (swords only) : A - 467 g. B – 446 g