Ogboni sword

This copper alloy and iron sword is associated with the Ogboni judicial society. Its hollow metal grip is moulded and consists of two pairs of opposed faces. The Ogboni sign is represented by the union of opposed curves on the forehead of each upper face. The sword contains certain flaws, for example, the grip’s moulding is offset, and the copper-covered iron blade has symbolic holes that would otherwise be perforated. There is a possibility that this is a lower quality item than what one would expect to find in the ownership of the Ogboni society members. The six rings near the base of the sword could reflect 3 pairs, again perhaps symbolising the importance of duality.

The donor, Reverend Henry Townsend, was said to have been a member of the Ogboni society. Although no documentation proves this, Townsend had received this sword as a gift 1846-50. In his memoirs, Townsend describes this sword as a ‘brass sceptre or bill-hook’ and states that it was given to him by a ‘conqueror’ who waged war against the chief of Abaka, which is one of the townships within the Egba Alake section of Abeokuta.

Was this surrendered to Townsend by the Ogboni from a position of weakness? This therefore is an inferior quality sword for the Ogboni but apt as a gift. Or was it surrendered to him during the internal conflict between the Ogboni judiciary and Olorun war chiefs? To recognise Townsend as an ally? Or to predict the outcome of the conflict? We really don’t know.

Likely made in Ijebu Ode, Nigeria.

L.656 x W.80 mm