Ceremonial Hatchet, Do
Yakoma / Ngbandi, C.A. Republic
Forged iron, brass
Early 20th century

There is surprisingly scant information available about these small axes, other than that they were ceremonial dance implements from the early 20th century, most likely the 1910s and 1920s.

While the Musée du Quai Branly identifies their indigenous Yakoma name as Do, the famous Taiwan Exhibition curated by Jan Elsen identifies them as Ngbandi (Elsen, Fatal Beauty, 2009 & 2013; Hache cérémonielle, Musée du Quai Branly, inv. #71.1931.74.2862).

Field collected by Armand Marcel Fontaine between 1920 and 1950, when he served as a colonial administrator.

Mounted on a custom display stand, pictured below. 

12.25 in :: 31 cm

InventoryID #13-578

SOLD