knife sickle - Trumbash - Mangbetu - DR Congo
09
days
14
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27
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Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
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Selected by Dimitri André
Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
Estimate € 750 - € 850
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Description from the seller
Mangbetu 'trumbash' sickle-knife
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total length: 39.7 cm
Materials: wrought iron, wood, twisted copper wire, upholstery nails
Period: late 19th/early 20th century
Weight: 495 g
Provenance: former collection of Sven-Erik Johansson, Varberg, Sweden; Swedish auction house
— Because of the strong and wide cultural influence the Mangbetu exerted on their neighboring peoples, this type of weapon was widespread and was known by many names in addition to nagata. Notably: mambele, nagala, nambele, dupa and of course trumbash. Historically, Nagata blades were used in clashes between the Mangbetu and the Zande, but in the 20th century they were mainly used for peaceful purposes and brandished in ceremonial dances. They were also used as insignia of dignity and offered as diplomatic gifts. Their detailed and refined finishes gave their wearers a certain distinction and contributed to their reputation and wealth (Schildkrout & Keim, African Reflections: Art From Northeastern Zaire, 1990; Vanderstraete, Monnaies Objets d'Échange, 2016).
— Stunning Mangbetu trumbash decorated with upholstery nails and twisted yellow copper wire on the handle, with a very beautiful patina from use.
The last two photographs show a drawing of King Mbunza with his offset sickle-knife 'Nagata' and three Mangbetu dignitaries posing with their knives.
— Sold with the invoice from the Swedish auction house Crafoord Auktioner - Lund (PDF document)
— Careful insured shipping with tracking number.
Mangbetu 'trumbash' sickle-knife
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Total length: 39.7 cm
Materials: wrought iron, wood, twisted copper wire, upholstery nails
Period: late 19th/early 20th century
Weight: 495 g
Provenance: former collection of Sven-Erik Johansson, Varberg, Sweden; Swedish auction house
— Because of the strong and wide cultural influence the Mangbetu exerted on their neighboring peoples, this type of weapon was widespread and was known by many names in addition to nagata. Notably: mambele, nagala, nambele, dupa and of course trumbash. Historically, Nagata blades were used in clashes between the Mangbetu and the Zande, but in the 20th century they were mainly used for peaceful purposes and brandished in ceremonial dances. They were also used as insignia of dignity and offered as diplomatic gifts. Their detailed and refined finishes gave their wearers a certain distinction and contributed to their reputation and wealth (Schildkrout & Keim, African Reflections: Art From Northeastern Zaire, 1990; Vanderstraete, Monnaies Objets d'Échange, 2016).
— Stunning Mangbetu trumbash decorated with upholstery nails and twisted yellow copper wire on the handle, with a very beautiful patina from use.
The last two photographs show a drawing of King Mbunza with his offset sickle-knife 'Nagata' and three Mangbetu dignitaries posing with their knives.
— Sold with the invoice from the Swedish auction house Crafoord Auktioner - Lund (PDF document)
— Careful insured shipping with tracking number.
Details
Indigenous object name
Trumbash
Ethnic group/ culture
Mangbetu
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Late 19th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Excellent condition
Title of artwork
knife sickle
Weight
495 g
Provenance
Auction house
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: Decorative and Martial Arts Use Only This item is offered for auction with the understanding that it is intended exclusively for decorative purposes or martial arts practice. By participating in this auction, you agree to: Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies. Ensure that your use of this item is consistent with the stated purposes. Please note that this item has not been inspected by Catawiki for safety or functionality. Catawiki does not condone illegal activities and is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this item.
Disclaimer: Decorative and Martial Arts Use Only This item is offered for auction with the understanding that it is intended exclusively for decorative purposes or martial arts practice. By participating in this auction, you agree to: Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies. Ensure that your use of this item is consistent with the stated purposes. Please note that this item has not been inspected by Catawiki for safety or functionality. Catawiki does not condone illegal activities and is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this item.
