Sickle knife "trumbash" - Mangbetu - DR Congo

• Ancient sickle-knife "trumbash" Mangbetu

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

• Max height: 41.5 cm

• Period: early 20th century / late 19th century

• Weight: 480 g

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

— Because of the strong and widespread cultural influence that the Mangbetu exerted on neighboring populations, this type of weapon was widely spread 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 symbols of dignity and offered as diplomatic gifts. Their refined details and finish gave their bearer a certain distinction and contributed to his reputation and wealth (Schildkrout & Keim, African Reflections: Art From Northeastern Zaire, 1990; Vanderstraete, Monnaies Objets d'Échange, 2016).

— The knife’s through-band ends here with a type of wrought-iron chiselled seal stamped with an X. It is a beautiful and old trumbash with a slightly worn blade but a very good tip, as well as the handle.

— The last two photographs show a drawing of Mangbetu king Mbunza with his offset sickle knife "Nagata" and three Mangbetu dignitaries posing with their trumbash.

— Careful, insured shipping with tracking number.