Short sword - Tetela/Kusu - DR Congo
03
days
23
hours
36
minutes
18
seconds
Current bid
€ 400
Reserve price not met
Expert
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 € 1,050 - € 1,200
5 other people are watching this object
 Bidder 3437 | €400 | |
|---|---|---|
| Bidder 3437 | €250 |
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Description from the seller
Rare short sword Tetele/Kusu
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total length: 42 cm
End of the 19th century
Materials: wrought iron, wood, copper, tapestry nails
Provenance: former collection of Jean-Marc Desaive - Belgium; Belgian auction house; private Belgian collection.
Although rare but well known, this type of sword has been little documented. It is often described as a prestige object or a chief's sword, without further details. Clearly, the level of ornamentation on the handle and blade makes it a highly prestigious object.
The Tetela are a Mongo culture with 120,000 members living in central DRC. They are not organized into a state with a central chief; instead, they are divided into numerous independent communities, each composed of several lineages. These groups are governed by hereditary chiefs, the kokolamani, through a prime minister, the nyampara. There are also hunting chiefs and war chiefs, and some political leaders are women (Felix, 100 Peoples of Zaire and Their Sculptors).
Superb piece, excellent provenance for a relatively heavy and very well-balanced knife.
Guaranteed home delivery via Bpost.
Rare short sword Tetele/Kusu
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total length: 42 cm
End of the 19th century
Materials: wrought iron, wood, copper, tapestry nails
Provenance: former collection of Jean-Marc Desaive - Belgium; Belgian auction house; private Belgian collection.
Although rare but well known, this type of sword has been little documented. It is often described as a prestige object or a chief's sword, without further details. Clearly, the level of ornamentation on the handle and blade makes it a highly prestigious object.
The Tetela are a Mongo culture with 120,000 members living in central DRC. They are not organized into a state with a central chief; instead, they are divided into numerous independent communities, each composed of several lineages. These groups are governed by hereditary chiefs, the kokolamani, through a prime minister, the nyampara. There are also hunting chiefs and war chiefs, and some political leaders are women (Felix, 100 Peoples of Zaire and Their Sculptors).
Superb piece, excellent provenance for a relatively heavy and very well-balanced knife.
Guaranteed home delivery via Bpost.
Details
Ethnic group/ culture
Tetela/Kusu
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Late 19th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Short sword
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.
