A Rare 19th Century Shona Double Bakatwa

Details:

• Origin: Shona people, Zimbabwe
• Date: 19th century
• Materials: Forged iron blades, mixed hardwood sheath (dark hardwood front, cherry wood back), sinew binding
• Condition: Excellent for its age; blades remain razor-sharp with minimal wear
• Cultural Significance: Ritual, spiritual, and hereditary object symbolizing ancestry, land ownership, and social continuity
• Provenance: UK Market, documented from a reputable and established art dealer specializing in African artifacts.

A Rare 19th-Century Shona Double Bakatwa (Zimbabwe)

This extraordinary and exceptionally rare 19th-century double Bakatwa hails from the Shona people of what is now Zimbabwe, embodying the pinnacle of Southern African edged weaponry. Revered as one of the most culturally profound artifacts in the region, Bakatwa daggers were not mere tools but sacred heirlooms, meticulously passed down through generations to preserve lineage and authority.

At its core, this piece showcases twin double-edged blades, masterfully forged from iron and honed to a razor-sharp edge that speaks to both ceremonial reverence and practical lethality. These blades are elegantly encased in an original two-tone wooden sheath, crafted from contrasting dark hardwood on the front and warm cherry wood on the back. The sheath is bound with traditional sinew, ensuring durability while honoring age-old construction techniques passed down by Shona artisans.

Adding to its allure, the sheath is etched with the iconic Shona geometric “X” motif, a potent emblem deeply rooted in their cosmology. This symbol evokes themes of land stewardship, ancestral bonds, and enduring social structures, serving as a visual testament to the Shona’s rich identity and worldview.

Far beyond its exquisite craftsmanship, the Bakatwa carried immense spiritual weight. It functioned as a vital instrument in rituals, bridging the living with their ancestors and affirming communal hierarchies. Authentic double Bakatwa like this one are vanishingly scarce today, making them prized treasures for discerning collectors and institutions alike.

A true museum-caliber specimen, this double Bakatwa exemplifies the Shona’s unparalleled blend of artistic ingenuity, functional design, and profound cultural heritage— a timeless artifact that invites contemplation of Africa’s storied past.