An African Toubou Daza Arm Dagger

c.mid 19Th century to mid 20th century.

Arm daggers are found all over the sub-Saharan region and Nigeria due to trade caravans. This particular style is unique to the Daza people of the Toubou ethnic group in Chad. The sheath is a combination of leather and crocodile skin. The pommel is a characteristic “skull crusher” of the Daza people. The dagger is carried on the upper arm, hidden beneath clothing. Total length is 305mm. The blade is slightly diamond in cross section, with engraved markings and parallel linear design features along the sides of the blade that appear on both sides.

Many Daza, including women, carry daggers much like this one under the sleeves of their garments -- long wrap-around dresses and head coverings. Men wear loose-fitting draw-string pants under long sleeve robes, concealing their own daggers.

Code: 872