Mangbetu knife - Mangbetu - DR Congo
02
days
16
hours
31
minutes
01
second
Current bid
€ 20
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 190 - € 210
 | €20 | |
|---|---|---|
| €5 | |
| €4 | |
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Description from the seller
Origin: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tribe name: Mangbetou
Material: Wood, wrought iron
Dimension: 35 cm
Shipping method: Colissimo within 24-48h; open.
This presented knife is a decorative object in Mangbetu style (located in the current Democratic Republic of the Congo).
Anthropomorphic handle: The major feature of this object is its carved wooden handle, representing a stylized human head. This figure has a characteristic, elongated, vertically striped hairstyle, which references traditional skull deformation practices (lipombo) formerly used by the Mangbetu to mark social status.
Facial features: The sculpted face is characterized by fine features, almond-shaped eyes, a slender nose, and a small mouth. The ears are also depicted with perforations, suggesting the wearing of ornaments.
Blade: The iron blade is inserted directly into the base of the bust. It is straight and symmetrical, ending in a point, with a prominent central ridge running along its length.
Function: Unlike a conventional combat weapon, this type of knife was mainly an adornment object, a symbol of power and prestige worn by chiefs or notables during ceremonies or to assert their social rank within Mangbetu society.
Origin: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tribe name: Mangbetou
Material: Wood, wrought iron
Dimension: 35 cm
Shipping method: Colissimo within 24-48h; open.
This presented knife is a decorative object in Mangbetu style (located in the current Democratic Republic of the Congo).
Anthropomorphic handle: The major feature of this object is its carved wooden handle, representing a stylized human head. This figure has a characteristic, elongated, vertically striped hairstyle, which references traditional skull deformation practices (lipombo) formerly used by the Mangbetu to mark social status.
Facial features: The sculpted face is characterized by fine features, almond-shaped eyes, a slender nose, and a small mouth. The ears are also depicted with perforations, suggesting the wearing of ornaments.
Blade: The iron blade is inserted directly into the base of the bust. It is straight and symmetrical, ending in a point, with a prominent central ridge running along its length.
Function: Unlike a conventional combat weapon, this type of knife was mainly an adornment object, a symbol of power and prestige worn by chiefs or notables during ceremonies or to assert their social rank within Mangbetu society.
Details
Number of objects
1
Ethnic group/ culture
Mangbetu
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Iron (wrought), Wood
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Mangbetu knife
Height
35 cm
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.
