Short Sword with Thin Counterweight
Saka / Ngandu, D.R. Congo
Iron, wood, copper
Mid 20th century

This blade is closely related to the ntsoko short sword that comes from the northeastern Mongo: the Ngandu, Saka, Lalia, and Kuru. The blacksmiths of the Mongo complex produced a highly varied assortment of knives with a leaflike shape. While primarily functioning as prestige weapons, they could also be used in combat. Westerdijk asserts that these knives "could be found in the possession of every adult male among the Saka and their neighbors" (Elsen, De Fer et De fierté, 2003; Westerdijk, African Metal Implements, 1984). 

17.75 in :: 45 cm

InventoryID #13-2091

SOLD