Knife - Kuba - DR Congo
06
days
15
hours
40
minutes
23
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 € 220 - € 250
No bids placed
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Description from the seller
Congo RDC (ex Zaïre)
Kuba
Fer et bois
Height: 400mm
Width: 80mm
Depth: 35mm
Weight: 335g
This piece of metal and wood is a traditional bladed weapon from Central Africa, more precisely a dagger or short glaive originating from the Kuba people (or related groups such as the Ndengese), living in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
1. Stylistic Features and Design
The weapon exhibits the characteristic traits of Kuba metallurgy and blacksmithing know-how:
• The foliaceous blade: The forged iron blade adopts a form known as a "sage leaf" or foliaceous blade, very wide at the base and ending in a rounded stop before converging toward a blunt point.
• The central ridge (spine): A strongly marked central rib runs the full length of the blade. The sides show signs of hammering and a rough texture typical of traditional forging work, covered with an old patina of oxidation.
• The handle (the grip): The hardwood handle has an ergonomic hourglass shape (widening at both ends and narrowing in the middle) to ensure a good grip. The junction between the blade butt and the wooden handle shows a traditional fit, here reinforced by an old wire or ligature.
2. Use and Function: A prestige and ceremonial weapon (Ikula)
Although its shape derives from a combat or hunting dagger, this object — commonly called Ikula (or Ilwoon) among the Kuba — goes beyond a mere utilitarian function:
• Status symbol: Among the Kuba, a man's identity and rank within society are closely tied to the ceremonial objects he bears. The Ikula is a prestige weapon worn at the belt by adult men and notable figures during assemblies, public ceremonies, and royal court rituals.
• A pacified weapon: To emphasize its ceremonial and honorific function, the blade tip is deliberately rounded and the edges are generally not sharpened for combat. It serves as a insignia of dignity, showing that its bearer is a free, responsible man of high status.
• Role in transition ceremonies: These daggers also played a key role in rites of passage, notably during male youth initiations or funeral rituals, where they were worn with pride to honor the deceased and reaffirm the prestige of their lineage.
The items are shipped with tracking numbers.
Delivery in France by Chronopost in 1 to 2 days. Delivery within the European Union via Chronopost International in 3 to 5 days. Delivery via Colissimo International for the rest of Europe and for the entire world.
We speak english.
Seller's Story
Passionate about World Arts and more specifically about African Art, we buy from collectors, former officials, military, health workers, public works staff who have worked in Africa and also in Côte d'Ivoire, from antique dealers and traders who roam across West Africa to find quality objects.
It is with pride that we present works that, beyond their power to beautify spaces, invite our collectors to resonate with the richness and depth of human expression through the most authentic art.
At Arts Ethniques Gallery, we have the privilege of offering our visitors an exclusive selection of artworks, all unique and original. Each piece presented is the outcome of a demanding artistic approach, driven by a singular vision and mastered craftsmanship, all elements that guarantee authenticity and value.
The works we offer are not industrial reproductions. They are individual creations, crafted with sensitivity and precision, each bearing its own story, identity and presence. Originality is the very foundation of our commitment to excellence. Thus, every mask and every statue in our collection is the subject of a rigorous selection, in order to preserve their rarity and singularity.
Acquiring a work from Arts Ethniques Gallery means owning a truly unique piece: a creation that embodies both talent, cultural memory and the expressive force of African art. It is also a lasting investment in a work whose artistic and emotional value transcends time.
We guarantee that every work leaving our gallery is an authentic piece, without replicas, bearing witness to the creativity, heritage and passion of the African artists who shaped them.
We invite you to participate in our gallery’s auctions with confidence. Each presented work is an original, unique and irreplaceable creation, selected with the greatest rigor to guarantee its authenticity and artistic value.
Whether you wish to enrich a personal collection or introduce an exceptional artwork into your space, Arts Ethniques Gallery offers a safe, transparent and professional setting to acquire remarkable pieces.
Art auctions are a privileged moment to discover rare works, capable of becoming the heart of a collection. Acquiring a work at our sales is not just buying an object: it is investing in a creation whose aesthetic value and cultural reach reinforce over time.
The pieces presented by Arts Ethniques Gallery testify not only to the talent and vision of the artists but also possess the ability to transform spaces and enrich the gaze of those who behold them.
Participating in our auctions is taking part in a singular experience, where the passion for art meets the rigors of collecting. Bidding on a work from Arts Ethniques Gallery goes beyond a simple transaction: it is a gesture of commitment and appreciation for art in its most authentic form.
We invite you to bid with passion and to join us in this adventure dedicated to discovery, transmission and celebration of art.
Perhaps your next heart piece is already waiting for you."
Translated by Google TranslateCongo RDC (ex Zaïre)
Kuba
Fer et bois
Height: 400mm
Width: 80mm
Depth: 35mm
Weight: 335g
This piece of metal and wood is a traditional bladed weapon from Central Africa, more precisely a dagger or short glaive originating from the Kuba people (or related groups such as the Ndengese), living in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
1. Stylistic Features and Design
The weapon exhibits the characteristic traits of Kuba metallurgy and blacksmithing know-how:
• The foliaceous blade: The forged iron blade adopts a form known as a "sage leaf" or foliaceous blade, very wide at the base and ending in a rounded stop before converging toward a blunt point.
• The central ridge (spine): A strongly marked central rib runs the full length of the blade. The sides show signs of hammering and a rough texture typical of traditional forging work, covered with an old patina of oxidation.
• The handle (the grip): The hardwood handle has an ergonomic hourglass shape (widening at both ends and narrowing in the middle) to ensure a good grip. The junction between the blade butt and the wooden handle shows a traditional fit, here reinforced by an old wire or ligature.
2. Use and Function: A prestige and ceremonial weapon (Ikula)
Although its shape derives from a combat or hunting dagger, this object — commonly called Ikula (or Ilwoon) among the Kuba — goes beyond a mere utilitarian function:
• Status symbol: Among the Kuba, a man's identity and rank within society are closely tied to the ceremonial objects he bears. The Ikula is a prestige weapon worn at the belt by adult men and notable figures during assemblies, public ceremonies, and royal court rituals.
• A pacified weapon: To emphasize its ceremonial and honorific function, the blade tip is deliberately rounded and the edges are generally not sharpened for combat. It serves as a insignia of dignity, showing that its bearer is a free, responsible man of high status.
• Role in transition ceremonies: These daggers also played a key role in rites of passage, notably during male youth initiations or funeral rituals, where they were worn with pride to honor the deceased and reaffirm the prestige of their lineage.
The items are shipped with tracking numbers.
Delivery in France by Chronopost in 1 to 2 days. Delivery within the European Union via Chronopost International in 3 to 5 days. Delivery via Colissimo International for the rest of Europe and for the entire world.
We speak english.
Seller's Story
Passionate about World Arts and more specifically about African Art, we buy from collectors, former officials, military, health workers, public works staff who have worked in Africa and also in Côte d'Ivoire, from antique dealers and traders who roam across West Africa to find quality objects.
It is with pride that we present works that, beyond their power to beautify spaces, invite our collectors to resonate with the richness and depth of human expression through the most authentic art.
At Arts Ethniques Gallery, we have the privilege of offering our visitors an exclusive selection of artworks, all unique and original. Each piece presented is the outcome of a demanding artistic approach, driven by a singular vision and mastered craftsmanship, all elements that guarantee authenticity and value.
The works we offer are not industrial reproductions. They are individual creations, crafted with sensitivity and precision, each bearing its own story, identity and presence. Originality is the very foundation of our commitment to excellence. Thus, every mask and every statue in our collection is the subject of a rigorous selection, in order to preserve their rarity and singularity.
Acquiring a work from Arts Ethniques Gallery means owning a truly unique piece: a creation that embodies both talent, cultural memory and the expressive force of African art. It is also a lasting investment in a work whose artistic and emotional value transcends time.
We guarantee that every work leaving our gallery is an authentic piece, without replicas, bearing witness to the creativity, heritage and passion of the African artists who shaped them.
We invite you to participate in our gallery’s auctions with confidence. Each presented work is an original, unique and irreplaceable creation, selected with the greatest rigor to guarantee its authenticity and artistic value.
Whether you wish to enrich a personal collection or introduce an exceptional artwork into your space, Arts Ethniques Gallery offers a safe, transparent and professional setting to acquire remarkable pieces.
Art auctions are a privileged moment to discover rare works, capable of becoming the heart of a collection. Acquiring a work at our sales is not just buying an object: it is investing in a creation whose aesthetic value and cultural reach reinforce over time.
The pieces presented by Arts Ethniques Gallery testify not only to the talent and vision of the artists but also possess the ability to transform spaces and enrich the gaze of those who behold them.
Participating in our auctions is taking part in a singular experience, where the passion for art meets the rigors of collecting. Bidding on a work from Arts Ethniques Gallery goes beyond a simple transaction: it is a gesture of commitment and appreciation for art in its most authentic form.
We invite you to bid with passion and to join us in this adventure dedicated to discovery, transmission and celebration of art.
Perhaps your next heart piece is already waiting for you."
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Indigenous object name
Knife
Ethnic group/ culture
Kuba
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Material
wood / metal
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
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.
