Superb short sword - Songye/Beneki - DR Congo
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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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Original Songye/Beneki short sword from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, dating to the late 19th century, 50 cm long and 10.4 cm wide, provenance Hessink’s auction house Maastricht, in good condition and authentic.
AI-assisted summary
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: late 19th century
- Provenance: Hessink’s Auction House, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Condition: The blade tip is in excellent condition and there is no rust. A cleaning can be performed, but collectors generally prefer to leave it as is, even though a little oil to nourish and clean the blade could restore some 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. Ethnic group linked to the Songye. The blade features a red copper inclusion at the center on both faces of the blade. Stunning incised designs along the entire length of the blade.
This prestige sword presents a clearly defined style, stemming from the Songye-Beneki and Nsapo, although many variants have been cataloged. 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 varying number of grooves and incisions, and copper elements are, as here also, sometimes present.
It is, of course, remarkable that a sword so ancient has come to us in such good condition. The patina of antiquity on the blade and handle is undeniable. It is truly a small wonder of Songye forge technology. The very wide blade shape indicates an unmistakable Eki style.
Sold with the invoice from Hessink's auction house.
Careful, insured delivery 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: late 19th century
- Provenance: Hessink’s Auction House, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Condition: The blade tip is in excellent condition and there is no rust. A cleaning can be performed, but collectors generally prefer to leave it as is, even though a little oil to nourish and clean the blade could restore some 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. Ethnic group linked to the Songye. The blade features a red copper inclusion at the center on both faces of the blade. Stunning incised designs along the entire length of the blade.
This prestige sword presents a clearly defined style, stemming from the Songye-Beneki and Nsapo, although many variants have been cataloged. 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 varying number of grooves and incisions, and copper elements are, as here also, sometimes present.
It is, of course, remarkable that a sword so ancient has come to us in such good condition. The patina of antiquity on the blade and handle is undeniable. It is truly a small wonder of Songye forge technology. The very wide blade shape indicates an unmistakable Eki style.
Sold with the invoice from Hessink's auction house.
Careful, insured delivery 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
