Time Period: 19th C.
Origin: Zimbabwe, Shona Peoples
Materials: Cast Iron, Sinew, Wood
Provenance: UK Market, Private Collection.

A super rare double Shona Bakatwa. Bakatwa is the general Shona word for the wooden scabbard daggers which can be found in Zimbabwe. Although the concept of a scabbard dagger might well have been copied from coastal Arab traders who ventured into the interior many centuries ago, the particular type of dagger or knife found here was developed as uniquely Zimbabwean. The wooden scabbard (hara) comprises two separate pieces of wood bound together by thread, brass or copper wire. The top section of the scabbard is usually richly decorated with intricate carvings of various designs. The front section of the scabbard features a wooden belt loops to allow the wearer to strap the weapon around his waist (Ellert 1984, p43).

Bakatwa Traditional Use
This weapon was accorded a high level of prestige in traditional Shona religious practice. Bakatwa were and are passed down from generation to generation in a lineage, and were used in religious rituals to symbolize the presence of the owner?s ancestors, the knive's previous owners. In these rituals, the owner addressed the bakatwa as if it was the physical embodiment of his ancestors. This link between the spirits and these swords also meant that n'angas (diviner-healers) and svikiros (spirit-mediums) carried them as the insignia of their profession. Certain Shona hunters were traditionally believed to be under the spiritual influence and guidance of deceased hunters, known as shave spirits, so they also carried bakatwa as a symbol of their spirit ally.

"Excellent Condition for it's age: May show signs of wear; rust, chips, and scratches.
Potential buyers should note that though we take great care in executing these reports, however, they are matters of opinion only, are non-exhaustive, and Hills Collectibles cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions. The responsibility for ascertaining the condition of the Lot remains with the Buyer. "