Dogon Forged Iron Ceremonial Blade

The Dogon smith, in their origin stories, brought fire and iron. Everything he forged meant more than its use.

This ceremonial blade was forged in Mali in the 20th century. A wide, square-shouldered head carries a long hooked spur that curls upward from one corner. The blade is flat and gently concave along each side, rough and hammered, dark iron gray with brown traces of rust. A slim shaft extends below and ends in a faceted knob.

Ten inches tall, seven across. The silhouette needs no help. Wall or stand, either will do.