Wooden Ikul Short Sword, Ikulintey
Kuba, D.R. Congo
Wood, brass
Late 19th / early 20th century

The Kuba made exact wooden copies of many types of knives and swords. Known as ikulintey, these wooden weapons were worn during the period of the new moon (i.e. the monthly three-day period when there was no moon in the sky), which was also when the main rituals of kingship took place. The Kuba believed that men could not die during the period of the new moon, and that women could not conceive, although their fecundity would increase as the moon reappeared and waxed in the sky.

During the rituals of kingship, not only were iron weapons shunned, but also all shiny objects of regalia were deliberately avoided – to wear iron weapons or bright metal objects during that time would threaten women with sterility and render the weapons themselves impotent. Once the new moon had risen, the natural and cultural worlds were considered to be back in harmony (Spring, African Arms and Armor, 1993).  

13.75 in :: 35 cm

InventoryID #13-2529

Price on Request