Throwing knife, kpinga
Nzakara, Central African Republic/D.R. Congo
Forged iron, braided vegetable fiber
Early 20th century

Coming from a region rich in diversity of both tribes and throwing knives, this piece is an excellent representation of what Westerdijk describes as "the phenomenon of blurred tribal style" (1988). While we can see close similarities to a common Zande blade-type (SPVIII, Type 8), and a vertical crown nearly identical to some Banda blades, this piece wears a wing that is undeniably Nzakara. Indeed, Westerdijk goes to great lengths to describe how the presence of this type of wing is a definitive marker of an Nzakara throwing knife. The sharp curve, rounded end, and the manner in which it intersects with the stem with a curved underside are the elements of the wing that are most important in this identification.

While historically used as a weapon amongst the sophisticated armies of the Zande and Nzakara, this type of throwing knife, known as kpinga, became obsolete in the 20th century, and became more an object of symbolism than function. In particular, they were used in ceremonies honoring the ancestors, wielded during funerals of powerful men, and even thrown onto or buried in gravesites. Potent symbols of power, they were considered to be the prerogative of nobility, and were often hoarded and protected in storehouses; only select men had the privilege of keeping a kpinga in his home (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).

Mounted on a custom display stand (not pictured).

19 in :: 48.5 cm

InventoryID #13-946

SOLD