Colossal Woman's Sickle Blade Uggo
Momvu / Mangbetu / Makere / Ngbele / Bodo, D.R. Congo
Iron, wood
Early 20th century

This abstract asymmetrical blade with gorgeous incisions was known as uggo among the Momvu. Used as a symbol of prestige by powerful women, this knife type originates predominantly from the Momvu, who live along the southern bank of the Maika River in northeastern D.R. Congo. Similar knives were also collected from neighboring groups, such as the Bodo, Makere, and Mangbele (Berardi, Standing on Ceremony, 2004; Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003; Elsen, Fatal Beauty [black], 2013).

This is perhaps the largest known example of this type. When purchased, the handle was damaged. The bottom third of the handle was rebuilt by a professional restorer. 

25 in :: 63.5 cm

InventoryID #13-2584

Price on Request