Sickle-Shaped Blade
Nzombo / Lobala / Ngbaka / Mbanja, D.R. Congo
Iron, wood, copper
Early 20th century

This type of sickle knife has the distinctive incising patterns of the Nzombo, Lobala, and Ngbaka, but was also perhaps made by the Mbanja. The work and wrap on the handle is typical of the Nzombo and Lobala (Elsen, Tribal Arms Monographs, Vol. 1 No. 1, 1996).

With its elaborate decoration, selective blackening, dramatic shape, and large size, this piece was likely more of an object of status and prestige than one of function. The bottom of the handle was once drilled for a display stand.

26 in :: 66 cm

InventoryID #13-2617

SOLD