Symbolic Throwing Knife
Ngombe, D.R. Congo
Iron, leather, vegetable fiber
Mid-20th century
This Ngombé prestige knife was known as ngbangba, mosabongo, or nétomiléma. While its design was said to have been inspired by the Ngbaka’s za sali throwing knife, it was never intended to be used as a throwing knife. This knife seems to be the product of the Ngombé’s expansion/migration in the early 20th century and their interaction with their new neighbors. The Ngombe used knives like this primarily as power emblems, symbols of prestige, items of wealth, and repositories of value. They are incised and beveled on both sides (unlike throwing knives, which are flat on one side for improved aerodynamics) and unfit for balanced spinning (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003; Westerdijk, African Metal Implements, 1984).
Mounted on a custom display stand (not pictured).
23 in :: 58.5 cm
InventoryID #13-1348
SOLD
