Long Sickle Blade
Bandia / Binja / Benge / Zande of the Rafaï Sultanate, Central African Republic / D.R. Congo
Forged iron, wood, heavy gague iron wrap, feline pelt (probably leopard)
Early 20th century

This type, called mambeli by the Bandia, is quite rare. The blades of the Binja typically share the characteristics seen on this blade of the handle shape, spur style (and presence of a spur), metal handle wrap, and general form. Other comparable examples of this uncommon type have been collected among the Zande of Rafaï and the Benge. These three groups neighbor the Boa and the Bandia, who produced blades with comparable incision designs and general outlines (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003; Elsen, Tribal Arms Monographs: The Sickle Weapons, Part 1, 1996).

The weight, forging, incision work, and piercings on this blade are superior. The strip of leather pelt tied to the handle quickly goes from brown to black and back. Collected in 1950.

30.5 in :: 78 cm

InventoryID #13-1010

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