East Africa, likely Maasai. Finely beaded short sword or knife in dyed red leather scabbard with intricately beaded belt in a vibrantly colored Christian church design. Size 19" L, blade 12" L

Maasai beaded swords are traditional weapons adorned with intricate beadwork by the Maasai people of East Africa, primarily Kenya and Tanzania. These swords, also known as "rungu" or "simi" are symbolic of warriorhood and are used for ceremonial purposes rather than actual combat in contemporary Maasai culture. The Maasai are renowned for their beadwork which carries deep cultural significance, symbolizing social status, identity and personal expression. Warriors often adorned their weapons, including spears and swords, with intricate beadwork as a way to display their bravery and prowess.