Sudanese maybe....but how much ??

[Jim McDougall]

Hi David,
An extremely nice and interesting Sudanese short sword, and without further researching seems to correspond to forms from regions in Dunqulah (Dongola) with the shape of blade and outline lines following its profile.
The interesting lunette shape on the pommel of course recalls those on the koummya and reflects the diffusion of influences from trade inroutes from probably Egypt and caravans from the north, northwest.

It does not seem 'touristy' and though inconsistantly fashioned in its motif was probably crafted by local artisans in imitation of other established decoration, and possibly for a local chieftain or tribal leader, ivory was not a rank and file commodity. I would say it is 20th century, with some age, probably 50 or more years, at a cursory estimate.

All the best,
Jim



The circle dot symbol is seen on other examples of this type sword from this region, the ones I have seen have more of a drooping 'T' type pommel. The symbol is seen on motif on other edged weapons hilts from the Saharan regions also.