Asymmetrical Prestige Blade
Gbaya, Central African Republic / Republic of Congo / Cameroon
Iron, wood, brass
Early 20th century

This is an old, widely recognized form, but there is unfortunately very little knowledge about its origin and meaning. The type is widely documented in books, museums, and private collections. Most commonly, it is attributed to groups from Gabon or the Republic of Congo such as the Kota, Mfinu, and Gbaya. But aside from those basic tidbits, not much more information seems to exist.

This example is sharpened on both sides. While the thick brass tape is certainly original, the thin brass wire is secondary. 

A related example was published in Felix & GE, Fatal Beauty: Traditional Weapons from Central Africa, 2009, cat. 63. 

11.25 in :: 28.5 cm

InventoryID #13-1676

SOLD