The Shotel is the traditional sword of the Abyssinian (Ethiopia). It looks like a huge sickle, with a long blade deeply curved almost to half circle. The purpose of this very awkward blade is to strike over or around the shield of an opponent. This one has a blade of 28 Inches long, (point to point) with a central ridge on the entire length of the blade. The hilt is dark wood with a small brass disk at the pommel. The scabbard is tooled leather. Total length 33 inches. l and dated to the late 19th C. Very good condition. This is a completely original and authentic piece. No repaired, replaced or restored parts. The scabbard hide is slightly shrink with age and the tooled decoration is partially worn. A good piece for the serious collector of East-Africa weapons / art.