Lofambwa - Ngombe - DR Congo
04
days
17
hours
02
minutes
48
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
With almost a decade of experience bridging science, museum curation, and traditional blacksmithing, Julien has developed a unique expertise in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 500 - € 550
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Description from the seller
Old and heavy "lofambwa" Ngombe/Doko sword
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total length: 78.5 cm
Period: late 19th century or early 20th century
Provenance: ex collection Sven-Erik Johansson, Varberg - Sweden
This rare sword was reserved for leaders and served as a symbol of prestige and dignity. It was often carried in a sheath made of two wooden planks.
The 120,000 Ngombé live scattered along the banks of the Lualaba River. They migrated in the 18th century from Lake Victoria and finally settled in their present location in the 19th century. They are led by chiefs, accredited by the warrior society, Elombe, who rule over village and family chiefs (Bacquart, The Tribal Arts of Africa, 2002; Elsen, De Fer and De Pride, 2003; Felix and GE, Fatal Beauty: Traditional Weapons from Central Africa, 2009).
Latest photograph of a chief and his Batsoko warriors with a lofambwa sword.
Guaranteed home delivery via Bpost.
Old and heavy "lofambwa" Ngombe/Doko sword
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total length: 78.5 cm
Period: late 19th century or early 20th century
Provenance: ex collection Sven-Erik Johansson, Varberg - Sweden
This rare sword was reserved for leaders and served as a symbol of prestige and dignity. It was often carried in a sheath made of two wooden planks.
The 120,000 Ngombé live scattered along the banks of the Lualaba River. They migrated in the 18th century from Lake Victoria and finally settled in their present location in the 19th century. They are led by chiefs, accredited by the warrior society, Elombe, who rule over village and family chiefs (Bacquart, The Tribal Arts of Africa, 2002; Elsen, De Fer and De Pride, 2003; Felix and GE, Fatal Beauty: Traditional Weapons from Central Africa, 2009).
Latest photograph of a chief and his Batsoko warriors with a lofambwa sword.
Guaranteed home delivery via Bpost.
Details
Indigenous object name
Lofambwa
Ethnic group/ culture
Ngombe
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Early 20th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Provenance
Auction house
Sold by
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: Decorative and Martial Arts Use Only This item is offered for auction with the understanding that it is intended exclusively for decorative purposes or martial arts practice. By participating in this auction, you agree to: Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies. Ensure that your use of this item is consistent with the stated purposes. Please note that this item has not been inspected by Catawiki for safety or functionality. Catawiki does not condone illegal activities and is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this item.
Disclaimer: Decorative and Martial Arts Use Only This item is offered for auction with the understanding that it is intended exclusively for decorative purposes or martial arts practice. By participating in this auction, you agree to: Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies. Ensure that your use of this item is consistent with the stated purposes. Please note that this item has not been inspected by Catawiki for safety or functionality. Catawiki does not condone illegal activities and is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this item.
