Superb short sword - Songye/Beneki - DR Congo
09
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12
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Starting bid
€ 1
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Selected by Dimitri André
Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
Estimate € 1,400 - € 1,600
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Description from the seller
- Short Songye/Eki/Nsapo sword (with inclusion of red copper)
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Total length: 50 cm
- Max width: 10.4 cm
- Estimated period: end of the 19th century
- Provenance: Hessink’s Auction House, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Condition: The tip of the blade is in excellent condition and there is no oxidation. A cleaning can be performed but collectors usually prefer to leave it as is, even if a bit of oil to nourish and clean the blade could restore a little shine. A small nick on the handle, otherwise in very good condition.
This very rare and heavy sword, perfectly balanced, comes from the Beneki tribe. Ethnicity linked to the Songye. The blade features a red copper inclusion at the center, on both faces of the blade. Beautiful incised designs along the entire length of the blade.
This prestige sword has a well-defined style, stemming from the Songye-Beneki and Nsapo, although many variants have been recorded. The handle can range from a simple carved wooden grip, as here, to much more elaborate models, adorned with various metals. Iron blades may have a variable number of grooves and incisions, and copper elements are, as here also, sometimes present.
It is obviously remarkable that such an old sword has survived to us so well. The patina of age on the blade and handle is undeniable. It is truly a small marvel of Songye forging technology. The shape of this blade, very wide, indicates an unmistakable Eki style.
Sold with the invoice from Hessink's.
Careful delivery, insured and with tracking number.
- Short Songye/Eki/Nsapo sword (with inclusion of red copper)
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Total length: 50 cm
- Max width: 10.4 cm
- Estimated period: end of the 19th century
- Provenance: Hessink’s Auction House, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Condition: The tip of the blade is in excellent condition and there is no oxidation. A cleaning can be performed but collectors usually prefer to leave it as is, even if a bit of oil to nourish and clean the blade could restore a little shine. A small nick on the handle, otherwise in very good condition.
This very rare and heavy sword, perfectly balanced, comes from the Beneki tribe. Ethnicity linked to the Songye. The blade features a red copper inclusion at the center, on both faces of the blade. Beautiful incised designs along the entire length of the blade.
This prestige sword has a well-defined style, stemming from the Songye-Beneki and Nsapo, although many variants have been recorded. The handle can range from a simple carved wooden grip, as here, to much more elaborate models, adorned with various metals. Iron blades may have a variable number of grooves and incisions, and copper elements are, as here also, sometimes present.
It is obviously remarkable that such an old sword has survived to us so well. The patina of age on the blade and handle is undeniable. It is truly a small marvel of Songye forging technology. The shape of this blade, very wide, indicates an unmistakable Eki style.
Sold with the invoice from Hessink's.
Careful delivery, insured and with tracking number.
Details
Ethnic group/ culture
Songye/Beneki
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Late 19th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Superb short sword
Height
50 cm
Width
10.4 cm
Provenance
Auction house
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
