Featured Yoruba (?) sword & beaded scabbard

Hi again. Bought this today, because it's fun and I've never seen anything exactly like it.

I'm thinking it's a tourist-y artifact? The beading looks spot-on for other Yoruba items I have seen.

Perhaps the sword is also contrived? Not sure you'd use a beaded hilt for anything other than display.

Any opinions and / or confirmation of these ideas would be great. Also, any opinions as to how old it is?

@komokwa

Thank you!!

 

what I know about these would....not.....fill a book !!

&
https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/authentic-ceremonial-african-beaded-1870428625

yours is very nice...

bead work rubbed in dirt to make it look older.....but still...I think 1960's..give or take......may be in that area...

 

"Purchased from vintage African art dealer straight from Africa."
So the art dealer was vintage? Africa is a huge continent with many cultures, pity they can't remember where.

 

Use the search terms "Yoruba udamalore" and you will find many examples of ceremonial swords with beaded scabbards and hilts. Non-functional weapons are often used as symbols of rank/status, and are worn on ceremonial occasions.

Here is a similar pair that sold at auction in 2005 for $70.

https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/1298507_115-yoruba-cermonial-swords

 

Thanks everyone for the info and research!

 

Love the scabbard!!!!

 

Thanks-- I do too. It's really eye-catching.