Interesting Welsh Sword Shillelagh

[TVV]

This is almost certainly a sword from Western Africa. The leather over cloth is typical of mandingo swords, and the pommel has some similarities as well. The blade could be a 19th century trade blade, or even an older blade that was repurposed.

[M ELEY]

Thanks for confirming my suspicion, TVV. I wasn't sure of the area and tribe, so that's great that you narrowed it down for David. I know many of the blades froming into the African continent were for the trade (Sudanese kaskaras, Berber swords, etc). The wood looks genuinely old. Perhaps pre-1900???

[DavidFriedman]

Western Africa, very interesting. The wood is extremely light, and wide along scabbard and bulbous termination. It seems more suited as a concealed weapon, than a club that could then have the blade pulled out at an opportune moment, unless using the scabbard end in striking.

The 2 inch broad sharp blade is very light and thin, even with the central fuller. Very flexible.

The wrapping over the cloth doesn’t appear to be leather, but I was under the impression it was bark, that was adhered over the cloth. I’ll take a second look. It is truly a strange beast.

Thanks for all your pointers.

Originally Posted by TVV

This is almost certainly a sword from Western Africa. The leather over cloth is typical of mandingo swords, and the pommel has some similarities as well. The blade could be a 19th century trade blade, or even an older blade that was repurposed.