Knife "trumbash" - Mangbetu - DR Congo
07
days
04
hours
37
minutes
22
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
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Selected by Surya Rutten
Has over 25 years' experience in Asian art and owned an art gallery.
Estimate € 800 - € 900
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Description from the seller
Ancient sickle-knife "trumbash" Mangbetu
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Height: 41.5 cm
Period: late 19th century
Provenance: from the Sven-Erik Johansson collection, Varberg - Sweden
Owing to the strong and wide cultural influence that the Mangbetu exerted on neighboring populations, this type of weapon was widespread and was known under many names in addition to "nagata", notably "mambele", "nagala", "dupa" and "trumbash".
Historically, Nagata blades were used in conflicts between the Mangbetu and the Zande, but in the 20th century they were used for peaceful purposes or brandished during ceremonial dances. They were also used as symbols of dignity and given as diplomatic gifts. Their refined details and finishes conferred a certain distinction on their bearer and contributed to his reputation and wealth. (Schildkrout & Keim, African Reflections: Art From Northeastern Zaire, 1990; Vanderstraete, Monnaies Objets d'Échange, 2016).
The knife’s through-wrap (silk) ends here with a kind of wrought-iron seal engraved with grooves and marked with an X.
Careful, insured shipping with tracking number
Ancient sickle-knife "trumbash" Mangbetu
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Height: 41.5 cm
Period: late 19th century
Provenance: from the Sven-Erik Johansson collection, Varberg - Sweden
Owing to the strong and wide cultural influence that the Mangbetu exerted on neighboring populations, this type of weapon was widespread and was known under many names in addition to "nagata", notably "mambele", "nagala", "dupa" and "trumbash".
Historically, Nagata blades were used in conflicts between the Mangbetu and the Zande, but in the 20th century they were used for peaceful purposes or brandished during ceremonial dances. They were also used as symbols of dignity and given as diplomatic gifts. Their refined details and finishes conferred a certain distinction on their bearer and contributed to his reputation and wealth. (Schildkrout & Keim, African Reflections: Art From Northeastern Zaire, 1990; Vanderstraete, Monnaies Objets d'Échange, 2016).
The knife’s through-wrap (silk) ends here with a kind of wrought-iron seal engraved with grooves and marked with an X.
Careful, insured shipping with tracking number
Details
Ethnic group/ culture
Mangbetu
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Late 19th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Knife "trumbash"
Height
41.5 cm
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.
