Knife - Ondo - Banda - DR Congo
04
days
20
hours
28
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31
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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 € 950 - € 1,050
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Description from the seller
Rare 'ondo' Banda knife
Democratic Republic of Congo/Central African Republic
Total height: 41 cm
Materials: wrought iron, vegetable fibers
Period: early 20th century
Provenance: Swedish auction house; former collection of Mats Sigelfeldt - Sweden; former collection of Luc Lefebvre - France.
The 19th century, marked by unrest, long migrations, and intertribal wars, resulted in the once united Banda becoming dispersed over a vast geographical area, divided into small, independent populations speaking some fifty distinct dialects. Similarly, Banda weapons display a wide variety of styles, often diverging radically from traditional aesthetics.
The Banda knives were historically reserved for military use (for example, to stop the advance of an enemy force), but their function evolved after the 1920s to include peaceful and spiritual objectives, such as ritual dance instruments. This metamorphosis is the result of the combined decline of conflicts in the 20th century and the persistent emotional connection of the Banda with their throwing knives (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).
This type of knife is uncommon and highly sought after. Its handle made of raphia fibers, still present, indicates that the knife is old, as does the color of the metal, which has turned a more gray tone compared to the original shine of the metal with which it was forged. This very beautiful knife, with excellent provenance, is for collectors and connoisseurs...
Guaranteed home delivery via Bpost.
Rare 'ondo' Banda knife
Democratic Republic of Congo/Central African Republic
Total height: 41 cm
Materials: wrought iron, vegetable fibers
Period: early 20th century
Provenance: Swedish auction house; former collection of Mats Sigelfeldt - Sweden; former collection of Luc Lefebvre - France.
The 19th century, marked by unrest, long migrations, and intertribal wars, resulted in the once united Banda becoming dispersed over a vast geographical area, divided into small, independent populations speaking some fifty distinct dialects. Similarly, Banda weapons display a wide variety of styles, often diverging radically from traditional aesthetics.
The Banda knives were historically reserved for military use (for example, to stop the advance of an enemy force), but their function evolved after the 1920s to include peaceful and spiritual objectives, such as ritual dance instruments. This metamorphosis is the result of the combined decline of conflicts in the 20th century and the persistent emotional connection of the Banda with their throwing knives (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).
This type of knife is uncommon and highly sought after. Its handle made of raphia fibers, still present, indicates that the knife is old, as does the color of the metal, which has turned a more gray tone compared to the original shine of the metal with which it was forged. This very beautiful knife, with excellent provenance, is for collectors and connoisseurs...
Guaranteed home delivery via Bpost.
Details
Indigenous object name
Ondo
Ethnic group/ culture
Banda
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Early 20th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Knife
Height
41 cm
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.
