Ceremonial Axe
Luguru, Tanzania
Wood, iron
First half 20th century

This beautiful ceremonial axe is a variant of the war axes of the Luguru (Waluguru), who live in the Uluguru Highlands in eastern-central Tanzania. Axes of this type, with a curved blade that passes through the handle and a carved head, are found in a vast area that covers the two southern coasts of Lake Tanganyika all the way to the Indian Ocean coast. The handle is made of wood carved with geometric designs and surmounted by a head wearing the classic Luguru hairstyle. The rear end of the blade can curve upwards or downwards, downwards being less common. In addition to being used ceremonially, these axes were also prestige emblems carried by old men who bore titles. Other groups who used axes of this type include the Zigua, Kami, Ngulu, and Kwere (Elsen, De Fer et De fierté, 2003; Zirngibl & Kubetz, Panga Na Visu, 2009).

23.75 in :: 60 cm

InventoryID #13-1908

Price on Request