short sword - Tetela/Kusu - DR Congo

• Rare short Tetela/Kusu sword

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

• Total length: 42 cm

• Period: late 19th century

• Materials: wrought iron, wood, copper, tapestry nails

• Provenance: former collection Jean-Marc Desaive - Belgium; Belgian auction house

— Although rare, this type of sword is fairly well known, but has been little documented. It is often described as a prestige object or a chief’s sword. With no further details. Evidently, the level of ornamentation of the hilt and the blade makes it a object of great prestige. This is indeed the case here.

The Tetela are a Mongo-speaking culture numbering about 120,000 members who inhabit the center of the DRC. They have never been organized into a centralized state with a single chief, but are rather divided into numerous independent communities, each made up of several lineages. These groups are governed by hereditary chiefs, the kokolamani, through a prime minister, the nyampara. There are also chiefs of hunting and war. And some political chiefs can be women. (Felix, 100 Peoples of Zaire and Their Sculptors).

— Superb piece with excellent provenance. A slight flaw on the handle but one that could easily be restored. This sword also features very beautiful tracings/engravings along the full length of the blade and has already been very lightly cleaned to avoid deterring collectors seeking authentic pieces with a touch of antiquity. An absolute must-have in any collection of African tribal weapons.

— Careful and insured delivery with tracking number.