Leopard Society Claw

This item is used like a knuckle duster, or fighting claw. Such devices have been thought to have been used by members of the so-called Human Leopards, or Leopard society, as a means of blaming the deaths of their victims on leopards. It consists of four iron claws attached to a bar, with finger loop at either end.

Further Information

• Type: Religious/ritual equipment, charms, Weapons, armour
• Object: Leopard Society Claw
• Materials: Metal
• Culture Group: Mende
• Dimensions: 120mm [L] x 60mm [W] x 40mm [C]
• Production Date: Pre 1956
• Associated Places: Unknown
• Associated People: Methodist Missionary Society
• Museum: British Museum
• Accession Number: BM:Af.1956.10.7

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