Exceptional scepter sword (Royal sabre) « EBE » of Benin’s ceremony chiefs ; Nigeria.

Openwork brass sheet with old ferrous patina, handle decorated with ribbed ivory plaques, held in place by braided leather straps, beautiful work of twisted iron below the latter. 

Eugene Bettra pedestal

Bibliography :

• Armes offensives et défensives d’Afrique Noire, D’Océanie et d’Amérique du Nord, Saint Etienne musée d’art et d’industrie 1966, cover page and page 6 N° 5 descriptions of  5collection André Schoeller’s cover sword. For a very similar sword. Vente Sotheby’s 8th of May New York lot 65