sickle-like form; curving blade at top with incised dots in triangular patterns and band of incised chevrons; slightly curved handle with wrapping and ball at bottom end

Iron, first half 20th century

Unknown artist, expand_more

Ironexpand_more

Funds from an anonymous endowmentexpand_more  2020.35.6

Not on Viewexpand_more

Roughly until the 1960s, every five years the Dadiya peoples in eastern Nigeria would celebrate Kal, a festival that marked the culmination of male coming-of-age ceremonies. Young men were initiated into adulthood, learning the moral precepts and social obligations that came with their new role. During the final celebrations they danced branding these sickles above their heads. Decorated with chiseled motifs on the blade, and wrapped in a coiling strip around the handle, these implements resemble actual farming tools. They speak to the value of work and community instilled in the young adults.

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Details
Title
Iron
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2020.35.6
Curator Approved

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sickle-like form; curving blade at top with incised dots in triangular patterns and band of incised chevrons; slightly curved handle with wrapping and ball at bottom end
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