"Long Dane" Musket with Talismans

"Long Dane" Musket with Talismans

Old muzzle loading musket

Possibly Asante

Western Africa. Original record lists Mauritania as its origin, while MSU researcher lists it as Asante

Researched by MSU student Moira Anderson under the direction of Dr. Billie Follensbee. "This Asante musket is an authentic weapon that was most likely used during the Asante civil war. Previously, while fighting against the British, the Asante were provided with hand-me-down weapons from the Dutch, including firearms such as this "Long Dane" musket. The Asante were then known to attach talismans to their muskets during the civil war of the 1860s; adorning the base of this weapon are cowrie shells, a common decoration referring to ancient currency, and small leather and silk pouches, which contain Islamic charms adopted from Muslims in the region. While the musket eventually rusted and became non-functional, it was prized for its ritual significance long after it could no longer be used for its original purpose."

c. 19th c.

19th

141 cm. h. x 12 cm. w. x 6 cm. d.

sculpture

Wood, steel, leather, silk, string, glass bead, cowrie shells

carved and cast

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Stoneman

1985.88

1985