Double-bladed sickle-sword "bango" - Lobala/Mondzombo - DR Congo
06
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Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 1,050 - € 1,200
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Description from the seller
• Superb double-edged execution sword "bango" (or "bwagogambanza")
• Ethnic groups: Lobala/Mondzombo/Ngbaka/Bondjo
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Overall height: 57 cm
• Weight: 476 g
• Period: early 20th century (1900–1910)
• Provenance: Swedish auction house Crafoord Auktioner, Lund; formerly in the Mats Sigelfeldt collection, Sweden
— In its abstract human form, the Bango blade displays symmetry and sophistication. Elsen describes this type of blade as a “luxury weapon for notables and chiefs.” They were also used for ceremonial purposes, notably during rites of initiation for young men (Gosseau, Tribal Arms Monographs, vol. 1, no. 2, 1997).
— Describing a blade that is different but closely related, Blackmun succinctly summarizes its use: “Despite the sharp edges and the exterior of the two curved blades, the beautiful swords of this type were primarily designed as rank emblems. They were worn by men of authority on public occasions. Like the Ngombe sacrificial swords, they are fashioned and decorated for beauty and elegance, and enhanced with copper and brass” (Blades of Beauty and Death, 1990).
— Sold with the invoice from the Swedish auction house Crafoord Auktioner, Lund. (PDF document)
— Careful, insured shipping with tracking number.
• Superb double-edged execution sword "bango" (or "bwagogambanza")
• Ethnic groups: Lobala/Mondzombo/Ngbaka/Bondjo
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Overall height: 57 cm
• Weight: 476 g
• Period: early 20th century (1900–1910)
• Provenance: Swedish auction house Crafoord Auktioner, Lund; formerly in the Mats Sigelfeldt collection, Sweden
— In its abstract human form, the Bango blade displays symmetry and sophistication. Elsen describes this type of blade as a “luxury weapon for notables and chiefs.” They were also used for ceremonial purposes, notably during rites of initiation for young men (Gosseau, Tribal Arms Monographs, vol. 1, no. 2, 1997).
— Describing a blade that is different but closely related, Blackmun succinctly summarizes its use: “Despite the sharp edges and the exterior of the two curved blades, the beautiful swords of this type were primarily designed as rank emblems. They were worn by men of authority on public occasions. Like the Ngombe sacrificial swords, they are fashioned and decorated for beauty and elegance, and enhanced with copper and brass” (Blades of Beauty and Death, 1990).
— Sold with the invoice from the Swedish auction house Crafoord Auktioner, Lund. (PDF document)
— Careful, insured shipping with tracking number.
Details
Ethnic group/ culture
Lobala/Mondzombo
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Late 19th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Double-bladed sickle-sword "bango"
Height
57 cm
Weight
476 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.
