Knife, Throwing, Matakam : 2015.2.36

Title:

Matakam Throwing Knife

Object Name:

Knife, Throwing, Matakam

Other Name:

Knife, Throwing, Sickel

Place of Origin:

Matakam, Northern Cameroon, Africa

Provenance:

Aboriginal Indigenous Art.
H = 22"
W = 8"
D = 1/2"

Like many throwing knives, these have evolved into prestige weapons. This type may be carried over the shoulder. The "throwing knife" developed from simple, functional tools into
one of the most beautiful weapons. The great migrations of African people over many centuries and in many directions have
all contributed to these design changes. The oldest type is found in the Sahel, in North Cameroon.

These weapons are thrown sidearm, and rotate around their center of gravity. They usually have two piercing spikes. Some of the knives are still used by African men as both weapons and ornamentation.

These "throwing Knife" forms were recognized and used as currency.

Description:

Double sickel—shaped throwing knife. Larger sickel—shaped top of blade, leading down to smaller sickel—shaped central area of blade, with a small opposite point in center of blade, were the two sickel shapes converge. Long flat handle, extending downward into a small loop at base. Handle is wrapped in a thin leather strap. Entire metal surface is covered in rust.

Collection:

Guy Mace Collection, (Turblex Company)

Material:

Metal W/Leather

Used:

Ritually Used

Technique:

Metal and Leather Working

Owned:

Art Department, Missouri Southern State University

Accession#:

2015.2.36