Balingbwa Dagger with Long Cone Pommel
Tetela, D.R. Congo
Iron, copper, wood
Early 20th century

Knives of this type exhibit sophistication, balance, and precision. They were worn by adult men, placed under their belt, without a sheath. Below the handle, baligbwa daggers typically have either a long metal cone, a solid counterweight, or a loop (Elsen, De Fer et De fierté, 2003). 

The Tetela are not organised into a state with a central leader. They are divided into many independent communities, each composed of a number of lineages descended from a common male anscestor. These groups are governed by hereditary chiefs kokolomani, through a prime minister nyampara, who in turn directs subchiefs and village heradmen. Some political chiefs are female (Felix, 100 Peoples of Zaire and Their Sculpture, 1987). 

19.25 in :: 49 cm

InventoryID #13-2309

SOLD