Short sword "ikulimbaang" - Shoowa-Kuba - DR Congo

03
days
15
hours
39
minutes
48
seconds
Current bid
€ 85
Reserve price not met
Dimitri André
Expert
Selected by Dimitri André

Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.

Estimate  € 500 - € 550
BE
€85
PL
€55
PL
€50

Catawiki Buyer Protection

Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details

Trustpilot 4.4 | 137988 reviews

Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.

Description from the seller

Magnificent ikulimbaang Shoowa-Kuba knife in red copper

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Total length: 39 cm

Period: early 20th century

Provenance: Eve Auction House - France

— This variety of ikulimbaang features a conical protuberance on its rounded pommel, a characteristic also seen on Kuba hat pins. This knife is said to have been introduced by King Shyaam aMbul aNgoong at the beginning of the 17th century as a symbol of peace. While any free adult man could own the common Ikul dagger, only a Kuba noble had the privilege of owning a ceremonial knife of this type. Serving primarily as a rank emblem, it was also brandished by both men and women during ritual dances (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003; Spring, African Arms and Armor, 1993; Westerdijk, African Metal Implements, 1984).

— Very heavy and rare Kuba ikulimbaang knife entirely made of red copper. A very beautiful collectible piece.

— Careful, insured delivery with tracking number.

Magnificent ikulimbaang Shoowa-Kuba knife in red copper

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Total length: 39 cm

Period: early 20th century

Provenance: Eve Auction House - France

— This variety of ikulimbaang features a conical protuberance on its rounded pommel, a characteristic also seen on Kuba hat pins. This knife is said to have been introduced by King Shyaam aMbul aNgoong at the beginning of the 17th century as a symbol of peace. While any free adult man could own the common Ikul dagger, only a Kuba noble had the privilege of owning a ceremonial knife of this type. Serving primarily as a rank emblem, it was also brandished by both men and women during ritual dances (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003; Spring, African Arms and Armor, 1993; Westerdijk, African Metal Implements, 1984).

— Very heavy and rare Kuba ikulimbaang knife entirely made of red copper. A very beautiful collectible piece.

— Careful, insured delivery with tracking number.

Details

Ethnic group/ culture
Shoowa-Kuba
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Early 20th century
Material
red copper
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Excellent condition
Title of artwork
Short sword "ikulimbaang"
Height
39 cm
Provenance
Auction house
Authenticity
Original/official
BelgiumVerified
45
Objects sold
Private

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.

Similar objects

For you in

African & Tribal Art