Throwing Knife, ndumo
Ngbaka Mabo, D.R. Congo
Iron, vegetal fiber, rattan
19th century

This weapon type, known as ndo or ndumo is one of the four main styles of throwing knives used by the Ngbaka, Mabo, Wada, and Manza. The Ngbaka blacksmiths were masters at combining welding and cutting-in techniques, demonstrated here by the expert craftsmanship in the composition, bevel, shape, and sharpening of this weapon. While there was much mutual influence and borrowing of style amongst these neighboring groups, this type is characteristic of the style emanating from the groups inhabiting the outer bend of the knee of the Ubangi River (Spring, African Arms and Armor, 1993; Westerdijk, African Metal Implements, 1984; Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).

From the collection of Jules Berton (1859-1903), a naval commissioner who was known for having married a Malinké princess by the name of Loti N'Dao in 1896.

13.25 :: 34 cm

InventoryID #13-1913

SOLD