Axe with curved and incised blade, andu
Lugbara, Uganda
Iron, wood
Early 20th century

The andu axe, also known as jambia, was used as a symbol of authority among Lugbara chiefs. Some jambia are decorated with leopard claws on the lower shaft. Functional versions of the andu were used for splitting firewood, extracting minerals, and digging graves (Pers. communication, Maandebo Moses Baakole, Dec. 2020). 

The Lugbara people live mainly in northwestern Uganda and the adjoining area of the D.R. Congo. They are settled agriculturists, subsisting primarily by shifting hoe cultivation. Millet is the traditional staple, and cassava and tobacco are also grown. Marriage entails a substantial bride-price in livestock or iron implements. The Lugbara lack a centralized political authority, and what formal authority exists is exercised by rainmakers and the heads of large family groups. The majority of Lugbara still practice ancestor worship; they believe in a creator god, Adroa. They are one of the peoples least affected by modern changes in Uganda, maintaining a strong sense of their own identity ("Lugbara," Encyclopædia Britannica, 22 Feb. 2016; Personal communication, Edward Aikobua, Dec. 2020).

23.75 in :: 60.5 cm

InventoryID #13-1684

Price on Request