Ikakalaka (short sword)
Datelate 1800s-early 1900s
Mediumsteel, brass, and wood
Dimensions51.4 × 16 cm (20 1/4 × 6 5/16 in.), 14 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.35
DescriptionIron. Double edge hollow-ground blade flaring at end to half-moon shaped tip. To either side of central rib is blackened and deliberately roughened, and slightly fulllered. Top edge does not appear to be sharpened, though the edge narrows toward the points, probably due to the hammering process. Lateral edges may be considered sharpened. Hourglass-shaped grip with top flaring upwards into flat discoid pommel. Tang passes through top and is bent over in small loop.See detailed measurements in digital file.
ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on May 1, 1931 from W.O. Oldman (London, England). Given to the Museum on July 1, 1954. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
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