Short sword "ikula" - Shoowa-Kuba - DR Congo
03
days
14
hours
55
minutes
52
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 € 400 - € 450
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Description from the seller
Ikul Shoowa-kuba knife in red copper
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total length: 37.5 cm
Period: early 20th century
Materials: red copper, wood, zinc (imbek)
Provenance: Ève auction house, Paris - France
Historically, each adult Kuba man wore an ikul. As in many other cultures, this sword symbolized virility. The Kuba are renowned for their smithing craftsmanship and the importance they accord to the community blacksmith. Blacksmithing was regarded, alongside weaving and a few other arts, as a royal art. This explains why carrying weapons was perceived by the Kuba not only as a cultural symbol of status, warrior and virility, but also of royalty.
The ikul was designed and created by King Shyaam aMbul angoo ng in the early seventeenth century and was initially worn exclusively by the Bushoong clan Kuba, then in power, as a symbol of peace. That a weapon serves as a symbol of peace may seem paradoxical, but it faithfully reflects the fact that peace is often guaranteed only by a government with an effective military force.
Careful, insured delivery with tracking number
Ikul Shoowa-kuba knife in red copper
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total length: 37.5 cm
Period: early 20th century
Materials: red copper, wood, zinc (imbek)
Provenance: Ève auction house, Paris - France
Historically, each adult Kuba man wore an ikul. As in many other cultures, this sword symbolized virility. The Kuba are renowned for their smithing craftsmanship and the importance they accord to the community blacksmith. Blacksmithing was regarded, alongside weaving and a few other arts, as a royal art. This explains why carrying weapons was perceived by the Kuba not only as a cultural symbol of status, warrior and virility, but also of royalty.
The ikul was designed and created by King Shyaam aMbul angoo ng in the early seventeenth century and was initially worn exclusively by the Bushoong clan Kuba, then in power, as a symbol of peace. That a weapon serves as a symbol of peace may seem paradoxical, but it faithfully reflects the fact that peace is often guaranteed only by a government with an effective military force.
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 "ikula"
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.
