MANDINGO SLAVER’S SWORD, 19TH CENTURY

19th century dating to the period of the transatlantic slave trade of which Gambia and the Mandingo were pivotal elements. Since contact with the Portuguese in the 18th century and subsequently the British, the Mandingo supplied a steady stream of slaves for the North American and South American markets. This example mounts a 25” broad, curved broad fullered trade blade with scalloped back at the tip. The hilt and scabbard are of fine leather skillfully worked, reflecting the status of its owner. The leather is complete with minor surface losses and the blade retains much original preservative. It was the Mandingo from which Alex Haley drew his main character for Roots, now largely discredited.