Hi Kirk,
Let me add to the words of welcome, I'm always delighted to see more members with an interest in Sahel arms and armor.
This is a very interesting short sword, I am not entirely sure regarding an ethnic attribution, this is a bit out of my normal area. However I saw one of these for sale the other week, shorter and the blade of a lesser quality. But with a scabbard. I will try to dig up some photos.
The style is certainly intriguing and I think Manding is probably not far off. I will take a look through my notes and see if anything turns up.
At any rate, a very nice piece exhibiting fine workmanship.
All the best,
Iain
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