North AfricaKoummya from North Africa. Part of the Pitt Rivers Museum Founding Collection. Given to the Museum in 1884.

The koummya is a curved dagger used by Muslim peoples of North Africa, particularly in Morocco. The curved blade shape does more than just deliver a slashing cut; it is shaped to resemble the tusk of a boar, an animal that responds aggressively when threatened and can protect against the Evil Eye.

The distinctive 'peacock'-shaped pommel provides protection for the back of the hand and the two protrusions from the sheath were used to hang the weapon from its wearer's baldric (leather or silk sash). Interestingly, the silver and red decoration only appears on the side visible when worn at the hip, emphasising this dagger's display value.