Symmetrical Discoid Knife, Mossal
Mbuun / Ngul / Yanzi, D.R. Congo
Iron, wood
Late 19th / early 20th century

The Mbuun, Ngul, Yanzi, and 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 ceremonial dance implements or magic scepters. Indeed, the surviving examples of painted mossal blades strongly resemble the ritual face painting of these groups. Additional information about their meaning and function is unfortunately scant (Berardi, Standing on Ceremony, 2004; Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003).

15.5 in :: 39.5 cm

InventoryID #13-2855

Price on Request