Axe "ibia" - Mfinu/Teke - DR Congo
06
days
14
hours
21
minutes
16
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 3,000 - € 3,300
No bids placed
Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 135253 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
Description from the seller
Rare axe "ibia" Mfinu/Laali/Teke
Democratic Republic of the Congo/Gabon
Height on plinth: 40.5 cm
Handle height: 30 cm
Max width: 30 cm
Period: mid or late 19th century
Provenance: Fraysse & Associé auction house, Paris - France
This characteristic axe, with its flared blade and thick handle, was a symbol of social status wielded by the Mfinu and Laali chiefs. It is also found among many other cultures, notably the Teke, Tsaayi, Kukuya, Mboshi and Kuyu. It formed an integral part of the chief's ceremonial attire and constituted an indicator of his rank (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003) (see last photograph).
The Mfinu number between 10,000 and 15,000 and live in riverine forests, as well as in marshes and savannas. They do not have a supreme chief, but several independent chieftainships. The leaders, called mbe, are elected by the village chiefs, who themselves are chosen by the clan chiefs (Felix, 100 Peoples of Zaire and Their Sculpture, 1987).
Sold with the magnetic base visible in the photographs.
This superb Teke axe, kept in exceptional condition, will be delivered with its invoice from the Fraysse & Associé auction house, at the request of the purchaser.
Careful and insured shipping with tracking number.
Rare axe "ibia" Mfinu/Laali/Teke
Democratic Republic of the Congo/Gabon
Height on plinth: 40.5 cm
Handle height: 30 cm
Max width: 30 cm
Period: mid or late 19th century
Provenance: Fraysse & Associé auction house, Paris - France
This characteristic axe, with its flared blade and thick handle, was a symbol of social status wielded by the Mfinu and Laali chiefs. It is also found among many other cultures, notably the Teke, Tsaayi, Kukuya, Mboshi and Kuyu. It formed an integral part of the chief's ceremonial attire and constituted an indicator of his rank (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003) (see last photograph).
The Mfinu number between 10,000 and 15,000 and live in riverine forests, as well as in marshes and savannas. They do not have a supreme chief, but several independent chieftainships. The leaders, called mbe, are elected by the village chiefs, who themselves are chosen by the clan chiefs (Felix, 100 Peoples of Zaire and Their Sculpture, 1987).
Sold with the magnetic base visible in the photographs.
This superb Teke axe, kept in exceptional condition, will be delivered with its invoice from the Fraysse & Associé auction house, at the request of the purchaser.
Careful and insured shipping with tracking number.
Details
Ethnic group/ culture
Mfinu/Teke
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Mid 19th century
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Excellent condition
Title of artwork
Axe "ibia"
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.
