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Adze

Adze

MediumWood, shells, and iron
Dimensions17 1/2 inches (44.5 cm)
CultureDan
ClassificationsArtifacts
Credit LineGift of William W. Brill
Terms
  • Liberia
  • Sculpture
  • and iron
  • Dan
Object number86.015.006 a,b
Label CopyBRIEF DESCRIPTION An 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.
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