Short sword "Ikul" - Shoowa-Kuba - DR Congo
07
days
03
hours
42
minutes
55
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
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Selected by Surya Rutten
Has over 25 years' experience in Asian art and owned an art gallery.
Estimate € 530 - € 600
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Description from the seller
Ikula Knife Shoowa-kuba
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total length: 38 cm
Period: very early 20th century (1900-10)
Materials: wrought iron, wood, zinc (zinc inlay of imbeko on the handle - extremely precise and delicate work)
Provenance: Belgian private collection
In the historical world, every adult Kuba man wore an ikul. As in many other cultures, this sword symbolized virility. The Kuba are renowned for their forge-welding craftsmanship and the importance they attach to the community blacksmith. The forge was considered, as much as weaving and a few other arts, a royal art. This explains why bearing weapons was perceived by the Kuba not only as a cultural symbol of class, virility, and warrior, but also of royalty.
The ikul was designed and created by King Shyaam aMbûl angoong in the early seventeenth century and was initially worn exclusively by the Bushoong clan Kuba, then in power, as a symbol of peace. The idea that a weapon serves as a symbol of peace may seem paradoxical, but it faithfully reflects the fact that peace can often be guaranteed only by a government possessing effective military strength.
While every free Kuba man wore an Ikul, on a new moon, when the moon is not visible in the sky, only wooden Ikuls (fake knives) could be brandished (Elsen, De Fer et De fierté, 2003; "Ikul (1907.21.25)")
Beautiful rare form of the blade of this specimen in perfect condition.
Careful, insured delivery with tracking number
Ikula Knife Shoowa-kuba
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total length: 38 cm
Period: very early 20th century (1900-10)
Materials: wrought iron, wood, zinc (zinc inlay of imbeko on the handle - extremely precise and delicate work)
Provenance: Belgian private collection
In the historical world, every adult Kuba man wore an ikul. As in many other cultures, this sword symbolized virility. The Kuba are renowned for their forge-welding craftsmanship and the importance they attach to the community blacksmith. The forge was considered, as much as weaving and a few other arts, a royal art. This explains why bearing weapons was perceived by the Kuba not only as a cultural symbol of class, virility, and warrior, but also of royalty.
The ikul was designed and created by King Shyaam aMbûl angoong in the early seventeenth century and was initially worn exclusively by the Bushoong clan Kuba, then in power, as a symbol of peace. The idea that a weapon serves as a symbol of peace may seem paradoxical, but it faithfully reflects the fact that peace can often be guaranteed only by a government possessing effective military strength.
While every free Kuba man wore an Ikul, on a new moon, when the moon is not visible in the sky, only wooden Ikuls (fake knives) could be brandished (Elsen, De Fer et De fierté, 2003; "Ikul (1907.21.25)")
Beautiful rare form of the blade of this specimen in perfect condition.
Careful, insured delivery with tracking number
Details
Ethnic group/ culture
Shoowa-Kuba
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Early 20th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Excellent condition
Title of artwork
Short sword "Ikul"
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.
