Knife - Kpinga - Nzakara - DR Congo
04
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15
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Starting bid
€ 1
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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 € 430 - € 480
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Description from the seller
Heavy knife 'Kipinga' Nzakara
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Height: 47 cm
Period: early 20th century (or late 19th)
Provenance: Swedish auction house; Mats Sigelfeldt - Sweden
Although historically used as a weapon by the sophisticated armies of the Zande and Nzakara, this type of knife, called kpinga, became obsolete in the 20th century and evolved more into a symbolic object than a functional one. They were notably used during ceremonies in honor of the ancestors, handled during the funerals of powerful men, and even thrown or buried in graves. As powerful symbols of authority, they were considered the prerogative of the nobility and were often kept and protected in warehouses; only a few men had the privilege of keeping a kpinga at home (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).
Published: Opitz, Charles J. An Ethnographic Study of Traditional Money. 2000.
Guaranteed home delivery via Bpost.
Heavy knife 'Kipinga' Nzakara
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Height: 47 cm
Period: early 20th century (or late 19th)
Provenance: Swedish auction house; Mats Sigelfeldt - Sweden
Although historically used as a weapon by the sophisticated armies of the Zande and Nzakara, this type of knife, called kpinga, became obsolete in the 20th century and evolved more into a symbolic object than a functional one. They were notably used during ceremonies in honor of the ancestors, handled during the funerals of powerful men, and even thrown or buried in graves. As powerful symbols of authority, they were considered the prerogative of the nobility and were often kept and protected in warehouses; only a few men had the privilege of keeping a kpinga at home (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).
Published: Opitz, Charles J. An Ethnographic Study of Traditional Money. 2000.
Guaranteed home delivery via Bpost.
Details
Indigenous object name
Kpinga
Ethnic group/ culture
Nzakara
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Early 20th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Knife
Height
47 cm
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.
