Knife "kpinga" - Nzakara - DR Congo

06
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06
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Current bid
€ 100
Reserve price not met
Julien Gauthier
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier

A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.

Estimate  € 430 - € 480
PL
€100

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Description from the seller

• Heavy and antique knife "Kipinga" Nzakara

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

• Height: 47 cm

• Period: early 20th century (1900-10)

• Weight: 517 g

• Provenance: Swedish auction house; Mats Sigelfeldt - Sweden

— Although historically used as a weapon by the sophisticated armies of the Azande and Nzakara, this type of knife, called "kpinga", became obsolete in the 20th century and became more of a symbolic object than a functional object. They were notably used during ceremonies in honor of ancestors, wielded at the funerals of powerful men, and even thrown or buried in tombs. Powerful symbols of power, they were considered the prerogative of the nobility and were often kept and protected in warehouses; only a few men had the privilege of keeping a "kpinga" at home (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).

— Excellent condition for a piece of this age with its fiber handle complete.

— May be sold with its invoice from the auction house Crafoord Auktioner - Lund, at the bidder's request. (PDF document)

— Careful and insured shipping with tracking number.

• Heavy and antique knife "Kipinga" Nzakara

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

• Height: 47 cm

• Period: early 20th century (1900-10)

• Weight: 517 g

• Provenance: Swedish auction house; Mats Sigelfeldt - Sweden

— Although historically used as a weapon by the sophisticated armies of the Azande and Nzakara, this type of knife, called "kpinga", became obsolete in the 20th century and became more of a symbolic object than a functional object. They were notably used during ceremonies in honor of ancestors, wielded at the funerals of powerful men, and even thrown or buried in tombs. Powerful symbols of power, they were considered the prerogative of the nobility and were often kept and protected in warehouses; only a few men had the privilege of keeping a "kpinga" at home (Westerdijk, The African Throwing Knife, 1988).

— Excellent condition for a piece of this age with its fiber handle complete.

— May be sold with its invoice from the auction house Crafoord Auktioner - Lund, at the bidder's request. (PDF document)

— Careful and insured shipping with tracking number.

Details

Ethnic group/ culture
Nzakara
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Early 20th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Knife "kpinga"
Height
47 cm
Weight
517 g
Provenance
Auction house
Authenticity
Original/official
BelgiumVerified
46
Objects sold
100%
Private

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.

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