Asymmetrical Short Sword with Embellished Handle
Lobala / Mbondzo / Mondzombo / Ngbaka / Mbanza / Ngiri, D.R. Congo / Rep. of Congo
Forged iron, crocodile skin, wood, iron, brass and copper tape, brass tack, copper sheet metal, iron staples, iron nails, rope
Early 20th century

This short sword was displayed as a symbol of prestige among a number of tribal groups who belong to the Gbaya family. Most often attributed to the Lobala, it was also the prerogative of a number of smaller tribes who were collectively known as Ngiri, and included the Mbondzo, Mondzombo, Ngbaka, and Mbanza. The surface of the knife was often given additional texture by using a hammer with a designed striking surface. The blacksmiths of the Mondzombo were mostly fishermen (Elsen, Beaute Fatale, 1992; Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003; Elsen, Fatal Beauty, 2013; Westerdijk, African Metal Implements, 1984).

16 in :: 40.5 cm

InventoryID #13-1263

Price on Request