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 the 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 inner edge of the blade is decorated with a series of semi-circles, made of an incised upper curve on each and a checkerboard pattern in the center. The 'base' upon which the semi-circles lie is a row of small dots between incised lines. This creates an abstract impression, when seen side-ways, of a plain with rolling hills behind. The narrow portion connected to the hilt continues the motif of the blade, with half-circles around the edge leaving the center space open, giving a nicely textured effect.