Dagger, Sape
Mangbetu / Azande (Zande), D.R. Congo
Iron, wood, zinc, brass
Early 20th century

Mangbetu daggers (sape) were typically carried at the waist, usually in a sheath, and served as both ornament and implement. The earliest documented examples of anthropomorphic carving definitevely associated with the Mangbetu were found on this type of blade. The sape is also found among the Azande, where they rarely have figurative carving on the handle. Sape blades were used by men and women for many purposes (Schildkrout, African Reflections: Art from Northeastern Zaire, 1990). 

Like many pieces from this region surmounted by a large disc, this example's disc was broken. It was repaired with three pieces from the original sculpture that fit back in perfectly, and one new piece of wood, carved to fill in the shape. 

9.5 in :: 24 cm

InventoryID #13-2665

SOLD