Ol alem (sword)
Dateearly 1900s
Mediumiron, wood, and leather
Dimensions64.8 cm (25 1/2 in.), 1 lb. 2 oz. (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.38
DescriptionIron elongated heavy leaf-shaped double edge blade broadening to heavy point. Of "Z"-shaped section with distinct off-set medial ridge extending full length to point. Grip is cylindrical & without guard. Wooden core wrapped in cord covered with brown leather.Label TextThe Maasai people, whose territory lies in Kenya and Tanzania, live chiefly by herding livestock. Since the area's lions prey on Maasai herds, the Maasai carry weapons when they are watching over their animals. Maasai men belong to age groups that determine their status, each age group being set apart by a distinctive style of weapons. At the age of about 15 to 21, Maasai youths (called layok) are initiated into the status of young manhood (called moran), at which point they are first allowed to wear swords. ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on May 1, 1931 from W.O. Oldman (London, England). Given to the Museum on January 8, 1947. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on viewCollections
late 1800s
