North African Tebu Short Sword

*North African Tebu Short Sword*

Also known as "skull crusher" pommeled swords. Spear shaped pommel with a plaited leather grip and a tapering blade with etched details. Measures approx 83cm.

The Toubu (also known as Tebu or Toubou) are a Saharan cultural group located within the modern political boundaries of Chad, Niger, and Libya. This dagger features the distinct braided brown leather covering typical of Toubou craftsmanship, with a blunt spiked pommel or counterweight that is proportionate to the blade size.

Historically, the Toubou people have inhabited northern Chad, northwestern Niger, and southern Libya, spanning a vast region across the central Sahara and north-central Sahel. They are particularly concentrated north of the Tibesti mountains, whose name, in Old Tebu, means “Rocky Mountains,” from which the Toubou derive their name. The Toubou are sometimes referred to as the "black nomads of the Sahara."

Toubou life revolves around livestock herding and farming in scattered oases where they grow dates, grains, and legumes. Their herds include dromedaries, goats, cattle, donkeys, and sheep. As nomadic pastoralists, many Toubou are highly mobile. Those who settle typically reside in palm-thatched, rectangular, or cylindrical mud houses.

*Condition*
This short sword is in excellent condition. There are some signs of wear and tear to the leather on the pommel and the blade has some discolouration. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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