Losandja Short Sword
Mbole, D.R. Congo
Iron, copper, wood
Early 20th century

This elegant short sword was known as losandja, and was used primarily as a symbol of status and prestige, but also in ceremonial dances. It was manufactured by the Mbole, who were talented and prolific copper smiths, famous in the West for their circular copper anklets.

During the 1920s, the Mbole began using European iron and consequently, Mbole knives became wider and longer (Elsen, De Fer et de Fierté, 2003). 

While not the largest, this is the heaviest example I have encountered, weighing 1088g. 

Two publications illustrated large eamples of this type, both smaller than this piece:
De Fer et de Fierté: 22.5 in.
Panga Na Visu: 23 in.

23.5 in :: 59.5 cm

InventoryID #13-3091

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