Execution sword

20th century

Extreme skill in smelting and forging iron is evident in central African blades. Blacksmiths had acquired special knowledge firsthand that smelting with large amounts of charcoal would create blades as hard as steel. Before use, such blades were polished to a high gleam to appear white, the color of the force of lightning and the realm of the spirit.

Iron and wood

9 15/16 x 25 13/16 in. (25.2 x 65.5 cm)

Gift of Katherine White and the Boeing Company

81.17.853

Not currently on view

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