Object Details
Culture
Dan
Medium
Wood, shells, and iron
Dimensions
17 1/2 inches (44.5 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of William W. Brill
Object
Number
86.015.006 a,b
BRIEF DESCRIPTIONAn adze is a tool used for smoothing rough-cut wood in hand woodworking. WHERE WAS (…)
BRIEF DESCRIPTIONAn adze is a tool used for smoothing rough-cut wood in hand woodworking. WHERE WAS IT MADE?This adze was made by a Dan blacksmith, and could be from Liberia, the Ivory Coast or Guinea.HOW WAS IT MADE?The handle of the adze was carved from wood. The blade was forged from metal by a blacksmith. Notice the addition of small inlaid shells, the small face carved into the front end, and the lizard-like animal on the handle.HOW WAS IT USED?An adze is used to carve any wooden object, including masks (which the Dan are especially known for) and spoons.
