Herminette "shongo" - Luba - DR Congo
04
days
13
hours
35
minutes
30
seconds
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 € 650 - € 750
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Description from the seller
Superb and rare ceremonial herminette, figurative 'shongo', Luba.
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total height: 46 cm
Materials: wrought iron, wood, patina
Period: early 20th century (or late 19th century).
Provenance: Jean-Marc Desaive collection - Belgium
The iron-bladed adzes with a figurative wooden handle were worn by the kings, chiefs, and titleholders of the Luba. Often carried over the shoulder, they served ceremonial purposes or to assert social status (Roberts & Roberts, Luba: Visions of Africa, 2007).
Luba artists created numerous objects linked to the activities of the royal court. Prestige objects were generally adorned with female figures, omnipresent in Luba art. With the Luba Empire extending over a vast territory, stylistic variations were numerous. Luba artists demonstrated their social status through the herminettes they wore on their shoulders.
The Luba Empire was founded in 1585 in the Upemba Depression by King Kongolo. His nephew and successor, Kalala Ilunga, quickly expanded the kingdom to encompass all the territories of the upper left bank of the Lualaba River. At its height, about one million people paid tribute to the Luba king (Bacquart, The Tribal Arts of Africa, 1998).
The last two photographs show two similar Luba herminettes.
Delivery guaranteed by Bpost
Superb and rare ceremonial herminette, figurative 'shongo', Luba.
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total height: 46 cm
Materials: wrought iron, wood, patina
Period: early 20th century (or late 19th century).
Provenance: Jean-Marc Desaive collection - Belgium
The iron-bladed adzes with a figurative wooden handle were worn by the kings, chiefs, and titleholders of the Luba. Often carried over the shoulder, they served ceremonial purposes or to assert social status (Roberts & Roberts, Luba: Visions of Africa, 2007).
Luba artists created numerous objects linked to the activities of the royal court. Prestige objects were generally adorned with female figures, omnipresent in Luba art. With the Luba Empire extending over a vast territory, stylistic variations were numerous. Luba artists demonstrated their social status through the herminettes they wore on their shoulders.
The Luba Empire was founded in 1585 in the Upemba Depression by King Kongolo. His nephew and successor, Kalala Ilunga, quickly expanded the kingdom to encompass all the territories of the upper left bank of the Lualaba River. At its height, about one million people paid tribute to the Luba king (Bacquart, The Tribal Arts of Africa, 1998).
The last two photographs show two similar Luba herminettes.
Delivery guaranteed by Bpost
Details
Ethnic group/ culture
Luba
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Early 20th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Excellent condition
Title of artwork
Herminette "shongo"
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.
