About this artwork
The blade of this ceremonial weapon juts outward from a baboon’s mouth. It is possible that weapons like this were related to blacksmithing. Alternatively, the weapon may have belonged to a diviner whose skills derived from a close relationship with a wilderness spirit. Special training allows diviners to work in concert with such spirits to reveal the sources of human illness and trouble. Wilderness spirits often ask the people they possess to have unique objects like this weapon, or an elaborate belt [see 2011.706] made for them, to be displayed during a diviner’s public trance performances.
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Status
- Currently Off View
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Department
- Arts of Africa
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Culture
- Baule
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Title
- Ceremonial Weapon
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Place
- Côte d'Ivoire (Object made in)
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Date
- 1875–1950
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Medium
- Wood and iron
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Dimensions
- 38.7 × 5.1 × 29.2 cm (15 1/4 × 2 × 11 1/2 in.)
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Credit Line
- Gift of Dr. Jimmy and Mrs. Jetta Jones
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Reference Number
- 1999.380
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.
