Knife "kpinga" - Nzakara - DR Congo
06
days
07
hours
02
minutes
34
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Current bid
€ 50
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 530 - € 600
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Description from the seller
"Heavy knife and ancient Kipinga" Nzakara
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Height: 47 cm
Period: early 20th century (1900-10)
Provenance: Swedish auction house; Mats Sigelfeldt - Sweden
Although historically used as a weapon by the sophisticated armies of the Zande and Nzakara, this type of knife, called "kpinga", became obsolete in the 20th century and became more of a symbolic object than a functional one. They were notably used during ceremonies in honor of ancestors, wielded at the funerals of powerful men, and even thrown or buried in graves. Powerful symbols of power, they were considered the prerogative of the nobility and were often kept and protected in storage; only a few men had the privilege of keeping a "kpinga" at home (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).
Excellent condition for a piece of this age with its fiber handle intact.
May be sold with the invoice from the auction house Crafoord Auktioner - Lund, at the bidder's request.
Careful and insured delivery with tracking number.
"Heavy knife and ancient Kipinga" Nzakara
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Height: 47 cm
Period: early 20th century (1900-10)
Provenance: Swedish auction house; Mats Sigelfeldt - Sweden
Although historically used as a weapon by the sophisticated armies of the Zande and Nzakara, this type of knife, called "kpinga", became obsolete in the 20th century and became more of a symbolic object than a functional one. They were notably used during ceremonies in honor of ancestors, wielded at the funerals of powerful men, and even thrown or buried in graves. Powerful symbols of power, they were considered the prerogative of the nobility and were often kept and protected in storage; only a few men had the privilege of keeping a "kpinga" at home (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).
Excellent condition for a piece of this age with its fiber handle intact.
May be sold with the invoice from the auction house Crafoord Auktioner - Lund, at the bidder's request.
Careful and insured delivery with tracking number.
Details
Ethnic group/ culture
Nzakara
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Early 20th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Knife "kpinga"
Height
47 cm
Provenance
Auction house
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.
