Ilwoon or Ilondo Parade Sword
Kuba, D.R. Congo
Iron, wood, copper, cowrie shells, resin
Late 19th century

Named Ilwoon or Ilondo, this ancient weapon of war became the quintessential parade accessory of notables and warriors. This symbolic sword was often kept in a fitted sewn raffia bag (ngum ilutoom), as it needed to be hidden on most occasions. The Ilwoon was frequently used in ceremonial contexts as an integral part of a dance costume, and dancers brandished these knives "as if to do battle with spirits in the air." The introduction of the Ilwoon is is attributed to King Shyaam aMbul aNgoong (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003, Spring, African Arms and Armor, 1993).

Mounted on a custom display stad, pictured below. 

Published: 100 African Blades, no. 83 (Rider, 2021). 

24.75 in :: 63 cm

InventoryID #13-1534

SOLD