Axe "ibia" - Mfinu/Teke - DR Congo

• Rare axe "ibia"

• Ethnic groups: Mfinu/Laali/Teke

• Democratic Republic of the Congo - Gabon - Republic of the Congo

• Height on base: 40.5 cm (L 30 × l 30 cm)

• Period: late 19th century

• Weight: 1186 g

• Provenance: Fraysse & Associé auction house, Paris - France

— This characteristic axe, with its flared blade and thick handle, was a symbol of social status wielded by the Mfinu and Laali chiefs. It is also found among many other cultures, notably the Teke, Tsaayi, Kukuya, Mboshi and Kuyu. It was an integral part of the chief's ceremonial attire and constituted an indicator of his rank (Elsen, De fer et de fierté, 2003) (see last photograph).

— The Mfinu number between 10,000 and 15,000 and live in riverine forests, as well as in the marshes and savanna. They do not have a supreme chief, but several independent chieftainships. The chiefs, called mbe, are elected by the village chiefs, who themselves are chosen by the clan chiefs (Felix, 100 Peoples of Zaire and Their Sculpture, 1987).

— Sold with the magnetic base visible in the photographs.

— The axe is sold with its invoice from the Fraysse & Associé auction house. (PDF document)

— Careful and insured delivery with tracking number. (Bpost)