Hache Kilonda - Songye - DR Congo
06
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€ 1
Reserve price not met
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 550 - € 650
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Description from the seller
Beautiful Songye Kilonda axe
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Height (handle): 37.5 cm
Width (blade, at widest point): 14 cm
Maximum width: 19 cm
Estimated period: mid-20th century
Provenance: former English private collection, Wallis and Wallis auction (lot 933)
This type of axe, called kilonda, was mainly produced by the Songye, but also by the Nsapo and the Luba. Although its form was largely inspired by functional weapons, they were strictly symbols of prestige and ornament. The Songye blacksmiths are widely recognized as the greatest masters of the forge and used hot and cold forging techniques to embellish these blades (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003; Lefebvre & De Waele, Kilonda, 2011; Neyt, Songye, 2004).
Beautiful, relatively light Songye Kilonda axe. Given its size, relatively small, that’s a bit normal. The antiquity is not certain and it should be older (around 1930–40). There are no engravings on the copper inlay and those on the blade are not very intricate. But it remains a beautiful small Kilonda axe with authentic copper inlay. Nice dotted work across all the red copper that covers the handle.
Careful and insured shipment with tracking number.
Beautiful Songye Kilonda axe
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Height (handle): 37.5 cm
Width (blade, at widest point): 14 cm
Maximum width: 19 cm
Estimated period: mid-20th century
Provenance: former English private collection, Wallis and Wallis auction (lot 933)
This type of axe, called kilonda, was mainly produced by the Songye, but also by the Nsapo and the Luba. Although its form was largely inspired by functional weapons, they were strictly symbols of prestige and ornament. The Songye blacksmiths are widely recognized as the greatest masters of the forge and used hot and cold forging techniques to embellish these blades (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003; Lefebvre & De Waele, Kilonda, 2011; Neyt, Songye, 2004).
Beautiful, relatively light Songye Kilonda axe. Given its size, relatively small, that’s a bit normal. The antiquity is not certain and it should be older (around 1930–40). There are no engravings on the copper inlay and those on the blade are not very intricate. But it remains a beautiful small Kilonda axe with authentic copper inlay. Nice dotted work across all the red copper that covers the handle.
Careful and insured shipment with tracking number.
Details
Ethnic group/ culture
Songye
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Mid 20th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Hache Kilonda
Height
37.5 cm
Width
19 cm
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.
