Dagger in Sheath
Luba / Kete Biombo / Northern Kete, D.R Congo
Iron, wood, monitor skin, cane
Early 20th century

While there is scant information about the specific meaning and use of this small prestige blade, it is a recognized type known to come from the Luba and the Kete. In general, symmetrical short swords in sheaths were important insignia among the Luba and their neighbors. 

The Luba empire was founded in 1585 in the Upemba depression by King Kongolo. His nephew and successor, Kalala Ilunga, rapidly expanded the kingdom to encompass all the territorries on the upper left bank of the Lualaba River. At its peak, about one million people, living in several tribes, were paying tribute to the Luba king (Bacquart, The Tribal Arts of Africa, 1998). 

10.75 in :: 27.5 cm

InventoryID #13-1873

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