Short Sword with Asymmetrical Pommel
Léka, Kumu, Lega, Mituku, Lengola, Songola, D.R. Congo
Forged iron, wood
Early 20th century

While this short sword was designed to be a symbol of prestige, this piece was deliberately sharpened with precision. The incising of the blade in horizontal striations seen here is typical of the Kumu. Other groups from the southerastern D.R. Congo like the Lega, Lengola, and most promintently the Léka, adopted this dagger model. They were sometimes worn in a sheath, yet often carried without a sheath (Elsen, De Fer et de Fierté, 2003; Fatal Beauty: Traditional Weapons from Central Africa, 2009).

Mounted on a custom display stand, pictured below. 

21.5 in :: 55 cm

InventoryID #13-1121

SOLD