short sword - Tetela/Kusu - DR Congo
07
days
04
hours
44
minutes
45
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Surya Rutten
Has over 25 years' experience in Asian art and owned an art gallery.
Estimate € 950 - € 1,050
No bids placed
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Description from the seller
Rare short sword Tetela/Kusu
Democratic Republic of Congo
Overall length: 42 cm
Period: late 19th century
Materials: wrought iron, wood, copper, tapestry nails
Provenance: former Jean-Marc Desaive collection - Belgium; Belgian auction house
Although rare, this type of sword is well known and has been little documented. It is often described as an object of prestige or a chieftain's sword, with no further details. Clearly, the degree of ornamentation on the handle and blade makes it a highly prestigious object.
The Tetela are an ethnic group belonging to the broader Mongo group, numbering about 120,000 members and inhabiting the central region of the DRC. They are not organized into a centralized chieftaincy but 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 leaders are women (Félix, 100 Peoples of the Zaïre and their sculptors).
Magnificent piece with excellent provenance and at a superb price.
Careful, insured delivery with tracking number
Rare short sword Tetela/Kusu
Democratic Republic of Congo
Overall length: 42 cm
Period: late 19th century
Materials: wrought iron, wood, copper, tapestry nails
Provenance: former Jean-Marc Desaive collection - Belgium; Belgian auction house
Although rare, this type of sword is well known and has been little documented. It is often described as an object of prestige or a chieftain's sword, with no further details. Clearly, the degree of ornamentation on the handle and blade makes it a highly prestigious object.
The Tetela are an ethnic group belonging to the broader Mongo group, numbering about 120,000 members and inhabiting the central region of the DRC. They are not organized into a centralized chieftaincy but 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 leaders are women (Félix, 100 Peoples of the Zaïre and their sculptors).
Magnificent piece with excellent provenance and at a superb price.
Careful, insured delivery with tracking number
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.
