Ceremonial Adze Nsésu
Western Pende, D.R. Congo
Wood, iron
1925 - 1950

Adzes of this type were the badges of office for men such as professional sculptors, chiefs, and priests. Worn over the shoulder and supported by one hand, they served to emphasize the special status of the owner. 

The 160,000 Western Pende people, also referred to as Pende Kwango, are mostly farmers and are not governed by a central authority. Showing little respect for recognized chiefs, they instead pay allegiance to family chiefs known as djigo, who maintain harmony and placate the anscestors (Elsen, De Fer et De fierté, 2003; Felix, 100 Peoples of Zaire and Their Sculpture, 1987; Roberts, Joyce, and Berns, eds, Striking Iron: The Art of African Blacksmiths, 2019; Westerdijk, African Metal Implements, 1984).

15.75 in :: 40 cm

InventoryID #13-2253

Price on Request