Short sword "bango" - Lobala - DR Congo
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€ 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
Beautiful and ancient double execution sword "bango" Lobala/Mondzombo
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total height: 57 cm
Period: early 20th century (1900–1910)
Provenance: Swedish auction house Crafoord - Lund; ex collection Mats Sigelfeldt - Sweden
In its abstract human form, the Bango blade displays symmetry and sophistication. Elsen describes this type of blade as a “luxury weapon for nobles and chiefs.” They were also used for ceremonial purposes, notably during initiation rites of young men (Gosseau, Tribal Arms Monographs, vol. 1, no. 2, 1997).
Describing a different but closely related blade, Blackmun succinctly summarizes its utility: “Despite the sharp and cutting edges on the outside of the two curved blades, the fine swords of this type were primarily designed as rank emblems. They were within reach of authorities on public occasions. Like the Ngombe sacrificial swords, they are crafted and decorated for beauty and elegance, and enhanced with copper and brass” (Blades of Beauty and Death, 1990).
At the bidder’s request, the invoice from the Swedish auction house Crafoord Auktioner of Lund can be sent to him.
Delivery insured - Bpost.
Beautiful and ancient double execution sword "bango" Lobala/Mondzombo
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total height: 57 cm
Period: early 20th century (1900–1910)
Provenance: Swedish auction house Crafoord - Lund; ex collection Mats Sigelfeldt - Sweden
In its abstract human form, the Bango blade displays symmetry and sophistication. Elsen describes this type of blade as a “luxury weapon for nobles and chiefs.” They were also used for ceremonial purposes, notably during initiation rites of young men (Gosseau, Tribal Arms Monographs, vol. 1, no. 2, 1997).
Describing a different but closely related blade, Blackmun succinctly summarizes its utility: “Despite the sharp and cutting edges on the outside of the two curved blades, the fine swords of this type were primarily designed as rank emblems. They were within reach of authorities on public occasions. Like the Ngombe sacrificial swords, they are crafted and decorated for beauty and elegance, and enhanced with copper and brass” (Blades of Beauty and Death, 1990).
At the bidder’s request, the invoice from the Swedish auction house Crafoord Auktioner of Lund can be sent to him.
Delivery insured - Bpost.
Details
Ethnic group/ culture
Lobala
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Early 20th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Short sword "bango"
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.
