The Takouba Sword.

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by Peter Hudson

From a web source https://minikatana.com/blogs/main/af...-tuareg-blades goes on to underline the deep understanding involving this sword form...
QUOTE"Moreover, the sword as a symbol of status and valor is evident in the way it is presented and used in various ceremonies. Among the Tuareg, the act of gifting a Takouba is a gesture of immense respect, often reserved for warriors of high esteem or visitors deemed worthy of such honor. The Takouba's role in rituals underscores its importance not just as a weapon but as an item embodying the essence of Tuareg society."UNQUOTE.

Peter this is the reason the takouba still resonates among these tribes as important as an element of status, social bearing and tribal tradition. So many examples identified by Iain were hilted in 70s or 80s, some even later, but with old blades that have been circulating for generations, even centuries.
This has of course often resulted in the derisive, shallow comments scoffing at many as 'tourist' souvenirs. Most of these were made for genuine tribal wear....but tourists do try to buy them, and often the tribesmen do sell them.
However, there are many occasions recounted, as by one guy I knew who had been in the Sahara, where the tribesmen adamantly declined the sale of one takouba they had.....obviously with blade of key importance.

On facebook, I think you can access pages of the takouba society still, at least in that group on facebook.

[Peter Hudson]

Hello Jim, Indeed ... I am looking through the vast references on one of the Wike sites at web... It is massive...
There are many references that are important for readers to consider Here is one that to me seemed to be on the right lines... https://africa.si.edu/exhibits/tuareg/who.html

[Peter Hudson]

Here is a selection of reference pictures to view and relate to...

[Peter Hudson]

Pictures continue...The shaped chape and tip on many weapons suggest the rounded structure and I have read that the weapon wasn't used in stabbing but was a slashing blade ...plus that the name of the tip was in the language of the Tuareg and means Tongue... I would almost be ready to say flat spatulate tip...however tongue describes it very well..
I note also that in the 8 strikes of the Takouba there is no stabbing or point thrust... rather the weapon uses slashing attacks to head, upper body and legs......anyway... no stabbing strikes. The Takouba was also used in conjunction with a spear and it is that weapon or a dagger that provided the ability to stab the opponent . I also note the use of a shield on occasions and even a stick..

[Peter Hudson]

More Artwork to ponder...Purely by accident this item appears to have rounded tips on the scabbard on the end of what seems to be a dagger arrangement. Yet the blades are pointed? ..and I have no idea what its function is... Perhaps some sort of knife/dagger used in wedding feasts ...I have no idea... Has anyone any idea?

[Peter Hudson]

I note certain sword style equal or similar to Takouba

[Peter Hudson]

Here I would emphasise the idiosyncracy of the Tuareg language system and thus I direct those interested to the website which quite neatly describes in so many words the dilema that the Tuareg language exists in. Please see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tifinagh

Peter Hudson.