Throwing Knife, ndo
Ngbaka Mabo, D.R. Congo
Iron, wood, copper
Early 20th century

This throwing knife, known as ndo or nduma is one of the four main styles of throwing knives used by the Ngbaka, Mabo, Wada, and Manza. While this piece evokes one of the earliest designs of this weapon-type, it is a later example that demonstrates the elevated skill and fine workmanship of the Ngbaka in the 20th century. The Ngbaka blacksmiths were masters at combining welding and cutting-in techniques, demonstrated here by the expert craftsmanship in the composition, bevel, shape, and sharpening of this weapon. While there was much mutual influence and borrowing of style amongst these neighboring groups, this type is characteristic of the style emanating from the groups inhabiting the outer bend of the knee of the Ubangi River.

Interestingly, this particular weapon type was one that the Mahdists of Sudan chose to recreate as a prestige symbol that they awarded to high ranking members of their armies. Created between 1885 and 1899, these prestige blades modeled after throwing knife designs were entirely non-functional and covered in Arabic script (Spring, African Arms and Armor, 1993. Westerdijk, African Metal Implements, 1984. Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).

12.5 in :: 31 cm

InventoryID #13-924

SOLD