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

• Ikula Shoowa-Kuba knife

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

• Total length: 38 cm

• Period: the very early 20th century (1900–10)

• Materials: wrought iron, wood, zinc (zinc inlay of imbek on the handle - extremely precise and delicate work)

• Provenance: Belgian private collection

— In the historical world, every adult Kuba man wore an ikul. As in many other cultures, this sword symbolized virility. The Kuba are renowned for their smithing craftsmanship and the importance they attach to the community blacksmith. The forge was regarded, just like weaving and a few other arts, as a royal art. This explains why bearing arms was perceived by the Kuba not only as a cultural symbol of class, virility and warrior status, but also of royalty.

— The ikul was conceived and created by King Shyaam aMbul ang oong in the early 17th century and was initially worn exclusively by the Kuba of the Bushoong clan, then in power, as a symbol of peace. That a weapon serves as a symbol of peace may seem paradoxical, but it faithfully reflects the fact that peace is often guaranteed only by a government possessing an effective military force.

— While every free Kuba man wore an Ikul, on a new moon, when the moon is not visible in the sky, only wooden Ikuls (fake knives) could be brandished (Elsen, De Fer et De fierté, 2003; "Ikul (1907.21.25))

— Beautiful rare blade form of this specimen in perfect condition.

— Careful, insured delivery with tracking number.