Double Ngulu Sickle Blade
Ngombe, D.R. Congo
Forged iron, wood, thick iron tape, brass and copper tacks
Late 19th / early 20th century

The Ngulu sickle blade (also called Ngolo, Ngwolo, M'Bolo, Gulu, Ntsaka, Bwakoya, or Mbeli na Banzi) is often erroneously labeled an "executioner's knife" in the Western world. While many stories purport the use of these blades in executions of animals and humans, such stories seem to be more the work of Westerners' intent on depicting the savagery of primitive Africa (indeed, the zeitgeist of the early 20th century) rather than the whole truth. Manufactured by the Ngombe ("men of the forest"), the Ngulu is a heavily decorated iron blade with an embellished wooden handle that is exuberant and beautiful. Gosseau asserts these blades were insignias of prestige, ceremonial dance implements, and valuables used for exchange (currency).

Interestingly, Gosseau describes in detail the process by which these blades were incised: "engravings are made by chasing a pointed hammer with another hammer along the heated blade. On the edge side, a thin line - actually a succession of short strokes engraved on the cold blade with a sharp metallic tool - runs along the whole length."

This type is also related to the Bango blades of the Lobala. Elsen described the function of this blade type as "luxury weapons for notables and chiefs." They were also used ceremonially, notably in initiation rites for young men (Elsen, De fer et de Fierté, 2003; Gosseau, Tribal Arms Monographs Vol. 1 Nº2, 1997).

Mounted on a custom display stand, pictured below. 

21.75 in :: 55 cm

InventoryID #13-1195

SOLD