short sword - Tetela/Kusu - DR Congo
Opens tomorrow
Starting bid
€ 1
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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 € 850 - € 950
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Description from the seller
Rare short sword Tetele/Kusu
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total length: 42 cm
Period: late 19th century
Materials: wrought iron, wood, copper, tapestry nails
Provenance: former collection of Jean-Marc Desaive - Belgium; Belgian auction house
Although rare, this type of sword is well known, but little documented. It is often described as a prestige object or a chiefs’ sword, with no further details. Evidently, the degree of ornamentation of the grip and blade makes it a highly prestigious object.
The Tetela are a Mongo-speaking culture with about 120,000 members living in the central DRC. They are not organized into a state with a central ruler; 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 chiefs are women (Felix, 100 Peoples of Zaïre and Their Sculptors).
Superb piece with an excellent provenance.
Delivery guaranteed - Bpost.
Rare short sword Tetele/Kusu
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total length: 42 cm
Period: late 19th century
Materials: wrought iron, wood, copper, tapestry nails
Provenance: former collection of Jean-Marc Desaive - Belgium; Belgian auction house
Although rare, this type of sword is well known, but little documented. It is often described as a prestige object or a chiefs’ sword, with no further details. Evidently, the degree of ornamentation of the grip and blade makes it a highly prestigious object.
The Tetela are a Mongo-speaking culture with about 120,000 members living in the central DRC. They are not organized into a state with a central ruler; 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 chiefs are women (Felix, 100 Peoples of Zaïre and Their Sculptors).
Superb piece with an excellent provenance.
Delivery guaranteed - 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
Provenance
Auction house
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.
