Sickle Weapon
Lobala / Mondzombo / Mbondzo / Ngbaka, D.R. Congo
Brass, wood
Early 20th century

The sickle weapon shown here is typical of the Lobala and their neighbors who live along the eastern bank of the Ubangi River. While resembling the Ngulu blades of the Ngbome, this weapon type was reserved for use as a parade emblem and for initiation ceremonies. The "single" model shown here is much less common than the "double" model. I have never seen a brass example of either type (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003; Gosseau, Tribal Arms Monographs, Vol. 1/No. 2, 1997).

Mounted on a custom display stand, pictured below. 

21.75 in :: 55 cm

InventoryID #13-1597

SOLD