Lot 140:
East African Maasai Seme Short Sword and Leather Scabbard
Sold for: $180
Description
One traditional East African short sword, known as a Seme, attributed to the Maasai or related ethnic groups. The hand-forged steel blade features an integral socket-style hilt formed from a single piece of metal. The blade is straight and double-edged with a central medial ridge for rigidity, expanding slightly in width before tapering to a leaf-shaped tip. No maker’s marks, symbols, or characters are visible on the blade or hilt surfaces. The accompanying scabbard is constructed of tan leather with a hand-stitched seam and decorative stamped geometric patterns. The throat and tip are reinforced with leather wraps embellished with rows of white metal eyelets. The scabbard includes an attached leather carrying strap with a small metal buckle.
Condition report:
The steel blade exhibits a dark oxidized patina and surface wear consistent with age and use. The leather scabbard remains supple with some minor staining and wear to the stamped decorative surface. The metal buckle and eyelets show light surface oxidation.
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