Pair of Miniature Reo Daggers
Lugbara (Lugbare), Uganda
Iron, wood
Early 20th century

Reo daggers, also known as Mbere or Mberembere, were Lugbara hunters' knives. The length of a typical Reo was 10 to 36 inches. While designed for scavenging game meat during hunting activities, they were also used for sculpting wood, especially for weapons. The handles were engraved to increase grip friction (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).

4.625, 5.625 in :: 12, 13 cm

InventoryID #13-1698

Price on Request