Symmetrical Discoid Knife, Mossal
Mbuun / Ngul / Yanzi / Mbuun, D.R. Congo
Iron, wood, copper
Early 20th century

The Mbuun, Ngul, and Yanzi, western branches of the Kuba people, are recognized as the originators of this wide discoid blade known as mossal. Some examples were painted with red and white dots and used by medicine men as a ceremonial dance implement or magic scepter. Indeed, the surviving examples of painted mossals strongly resemble ritual face painting among these groups. Additional information about their meaning and function is unfortunately scant (Berardi, Standing on Ceremony, 2004; Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003).

15 in :: 38 cm

InventoryID #13-2823

Price on Request