djehoun
The djehoun is a type of short blade that has been traditionally used by several West African peoples, particularly among the Bambara of Mali and the Songhaï of the Sahel. It is a single‑edge, relatively sharp knife or dagger with a curved or slightly dihedral blade that typically ranges in length from 20 to 35 centimeters. The hilt is usually made from wood or animal horn and may include a simple cross‑guard or a small pommel, though many examples are unadorned.
Manufacture of a djehoun generally involves forging a flat steel or wrought iron strip, followed by forging
The weapon served several practical purposes: as a defensive tool, a utility knife for daily chores, and
Trade of djehouns extended beyond local borders. As the trans‑Saharan trade networks grew, the blade was shipped
Today, the djehoun is largely a historical artifact and a subject of anthropological study. Contemporary craft