Saraka Tongs

A pair of saraka blacksmiths tongs. The tongs consist of two scissor-like blades working on a copper bolt. One of the handles has twisted fluting, the other has a small band of incised lines at the junction of the blade and the handle. The term saraka comes from the Arabic word for sacrifice but it was used widely in Sierra Leone to refer to objects imbued by ritual with spiritual power. These tongs are associated with blacksmiths, who were widely credited with spiritual powers in many parts of West Africa, which might explain the use of saraka in Alldridge's object description.

Further Information

  • Type: Religious/ritual equipment, charms, Tools, implements
  • Object: Saraka Tongs
  • Materials: Metal
  • Culture Group: Mende
  • Dimensions: 310mm [L] x 45mm x 8mm
  • Production Date: Pre 1899
  • Associated Places: Unknown
  • Associated People: Thomas Joshua Alldridge (Collector)
  • Museum: Brighton Museum and Art Gallery
  • Accession Number: BMAG:R3483/84

Related Objects

Adze

Tools, implements

Whip

Tools, implements, Regalia

Whip

Tools, implements, Regalia

Whip

Tools, implements, Regalia

Schoolboard

Tools, implements