The ceremonial sword is an important symbol of power and authority. High ranking individuals wear the udamalore (a small, ornate ceremonial sword) during festivals to distinguish themselves as someone of importance. At Ilesha (central Yorubaland), the chief strikes the blade of his sword on the earth three times when he greets Ogun, god of iron. Swords are not only emblems of wealth, but also of the power latent within the metal itself to cause either destruction, or to be used for protection. Just as an individual possessing power, both earthly and spiritual, may use the weapon for aggressive or passive purposes depending upon his judgment and wisdom.
The blade is decorated with a fascinating assortment of highly stylized animals. They resemble lizards created by series of double and single series of dots; used as a simple straight line for the spine and tail, then curved to indicate a bulbous body. Two of the creatures face each other head to head at the top, while a third looks on from below. A series of striated semi-circles line the edge of the blade like rolling hills. The overall pattern is one of mystery and magic, using ancient symbols rendered with elegance and sensitivity.