Sickle knife "trumbash" - Mangbetu - DR Congo

• Old sickle-blade knife "trumbash" Mangbetu

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

• Max height: 41.5 cm

• Period: late 19th century

• Weight: 480 g

• Provenance: ex collection Sven-Erik Johansson, Varberg - Sweden

— Due to the strong and widespread cultural influence that the Mangbetu exerted on their neighboring populations, this type of weapon was widespread and was known by many names in addition to nagata, notably mambele, nagala, nambele, dupa and trumbash.

— Historically, Nagata blades were used in clashes between the Mangbetu and the Zande, but in the 20th century they were used for peaceful purposes and brandished during ceremonial dances. They were also used as insignia of dignity and given as diplomatic gifts. Their refined details and finish bestowed a certain distinction on the wearer and contributed to his reputation and wealth (Schildkrout & Keim, African Reflections: Art From Northeastern Zaire, 1990; Vanderstraete, Coins and Objects of Exchange, 2016).

— The knife’s tang ends here with a kind of wrought-iron stamp, grooved and marked with an X. A superb piece.

— The last two photographs show King Mbunza with his Nagata knife and three Mangbetu men and their trumbash.

— Carefully packaged, insured delivery with tracking number.