Currency Knife, Empute or Vaiolo
Lokélé / Mbolé / Topoké, D.R. Congo
Iron, wood, copper
Early 20th century

While resembling a functional knife, the purpose of this blade was a symbol of high prestige. Over time, the solid iron block on the pommel grew larger and larger, so much so that eventually, these knives became entirely unbalanced and obviously unusable. Frobenius reported this type being collected in the upper Lomami River region in northern D.R. Congo, but additional examples have been collected far northwest, in the Republic of Congo (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003; Spring, African Arms and Armor, 1993; Zirngibl, Rare African Short Weapons, 1983).

As Hurst wrote, "the iron pommel was a tangible asset in itself: 'In many parts of Africa, iron is money that represents a standard of value, a medium of exchange, and a standard of wealth'" (Quiggin, 1963). The possession of these valuable weapons enhanced the status of the owner; when such knives were presented to an ally or rival, a reciprocal gift or favor of considerable consequence was an implicit requirement (Hurst, Ngola, 1997).

Weight: 2100g

27.5 in :: 70 cm

InventoryID #13-2835

Price on Request