TETELA SLAVER’S SWORD

Second half of the 19th century. From the Methodist Missionary Society collection sold in London in 1980’s. 19 1/4" length. Two hand hilt with medial ring and pyramidal guard, sheathed in copper and iron wire spiral wrap. Long tapered copper sheathed upper segment. Heart shaped blade with scalloped edge oval ricasso engraved in opposing herring bone panels. Thickened medial stepped to the edges. This example is distinguished by the details not normally encountered including the delicate reverse folds of the guard tips and faceted section of the guard. These short swords were used in house or Kral raids in which entire extended families were violently overcome and sorted out with those saleable taken to the markets.  The old and infirm were slain as unsaleable. Excellent example.