Pair of Solid Copper Balingbwa Daggers
Tetela, D.R. Congo
Copper
Early 20th century

Knives of this type exhibit sophistication, balance, and precision. They were worn by adult men, placed under their belt, without a sheath (Elsen, De Fer et De fierté, 2003). 

For a curved, but otherwise related solid-copper example, see 100 African Blades, Vol. II, Plate 91 (Rider, 2023). 

The Tetela are not organised into a state with a central leader. They are divided into many independent communities, each composed of a number of lineages descended from a common male anscestor. These groups are governed by hereditary chiefs kokolomani, through a prime minister nyampara, who in turn directs subchiefs and village heradmen. Some political chiefs are female (Felix, 100 Peoples of Zaire and Their Sculpture, 1987). 

12.75 in :: 32 cm
13 in :: 33 cm

InventoryID #13-2631

SOLD