Knife "kpinga" - Nzakara - DR Congo
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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 € 750 - € 850
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Description from the seller
Superb knife "Kpinga" Nzakara (sold mounted on a base)
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Max height: 48 cm
Max width: 46 cm
Materials: wrought iron, plant fibers
Provenance: ex collection Mats Sigelfeldt - Sweden
Although historically used as a weapon by the sophisticated armies of the Zande and the Nzakara, this type of knife, called kpinga, became obsolete in the 20th century and became more of a symbolic object than a functional one. They were notably used during ceremonies in honor of ancestors, handled at the funerals of powerful men, and even thrown or buried on tombs. Powerful symbols of power, they were preferred as the prerogative of the nobility and were often kept and protected in warehouses; only a few men had the privilege of owning a kpinga in their homes (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).
Sold with its custom magnetic base visible in the photographs. Beautiful engravings.
We can see in the 4 last photographs a shield with its Nzakara knife from the Allan Slatec African Memory collection (France) and a few photos of the related Azande people.
Delivery insured Bpost
Superb knife "Kpinga" Nzakara (sold mounted on a base)
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Max height: 48 cm
Max width: 46 cm
Materials: wrought iron, plant fibers
Provenance: ex collection Mats Sigelfeldt - Sweden
Although historically used as a weapon by the sophisticated armies of the Zande and the Nzakara, this type of knife, called kpinga, became obsolete in the 20th century and became more of a symbolic object than a functional one. They were notably used during ceremonies in honor of ancestors, handled at the funerals of powerful men, and even thrown or buried on tombs. Powerful symbols of power, they were preferred as the prerogative of the nobility and were often kept and protected in warehouses; only a few men had the privilege of owning a kpinga in their homes (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).
Sold with its custom magnetic base visible in the photographs. Beautiful engravings.
We can see in the 4 last photographs a shield with its Nzakara knife from the Allan Slatec African Memory collection (France) and a few photos of the related Azande people.
Delivery insured Bpost
Details
Ethnic group/ culture
Nzakara
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Early 20th century
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Excellent condition
Title of artwork
Knife "kpinga"
Provenance
Private collection
Authenticity
Original/official
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.
