Women's Prestige Blade Uggo
Momvu / western Mangbetu / Makere / Ngbele / Bodo, D.R. Congo
Iron, ivory
Early 20th century

This abstract asymmetrical blade with gorgeous incisions was known as uggo among the Momvu. Used as a symbol of prestige by powerful women, this knife type originates predominantly from the Momvu, who live along the southern bank of the Maika River in northeastern D.R. Congo. Similar knives were also collected from neighboring groups, such as the Bodo, Makere, and Mangbele (Berardi, Standing on Ceremony, 2004; Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003; Elsen, Fatal Beauty [black], 2013).

18.75 in :: 47.5 cm

InventoryID #13-2388

SOLD