Ikula - Kuba - DR Congo
06
days
22
hours
34
minutes
15
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 200 - € 250
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Description from the seller
Kuba ikula knife – Democratic Republic of the Congo
A Kuba ikula with a broad, leaf-shaped iron blade and a wooden handle covered in finely wrapped metal wire. The ikula was the Kuba knife of peace, carried by men as a sign of status rather than as a weapon.
The blade swells out from the guard and ends in a rounded point. A raised central ridge runs down its length, flanked on each side by bands of fine parallel grooves. The handle is built up in sections: a wide flared guard, a tapering grip, a turned wooden ring, a round bulb and a flat disc pommel. Almost every surface is covered in tight wire wrapping laid in herringbone, chevron and zigzag patterns. The end of the pommel carries an interlocking geometric motif in the same technique. The bare wood shows a warm brown patina where it has been handled.
Condition: Good
The blade has an even dark surface with light oxidation, consistent with age. The wire wrapping is largely intact, with some wear on the raised parts. The wood shows a handled patina.
Measurements: total length 35 cm, width 9 cm. Blade 23.5 cm, handle 11 cm.
Shipping: Medium package.
Kuba ikula knife – Democratic Republic of the Congo
A Kuba ikula with a broad, leaf-shaped iron blade and a wooden handle covered in finely wrapped metal wire. The ikula was the Kuba knife of peace, carried by men as a sign of status rather than as a weapon.
The blade swells out from the guard and ends in a rounded point. A raised central ridge runs down its length, flanked on each side by bands of fine parallel grooves. The handle is built up in sections: a wide flared guard, a tapering grip, a turned wooden ring, a round bulb and a flat disc pommel. Almost every surface is covered in tight wire wrapping laid in herringbone, chevron and zigzag patterns. The end of the pommel carries an interlocking geometric motif in the same technique. The bare wood shows a warm brown patina where it has been handled.
Condition: Good
The blade has an even dark surface with light oxidation, consistent with age. The wire wrapping is largely intact, with some wear on the raised parts. The wood shows a handled patina.
Measurements: total length 35 cm, width 9 cm. Blade 23.5 cm, handle 11 cm.
Shipping: Medium package.
Details
Indigenous object name
Kuba
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Material
Steel
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Excellent condition
Title of artwork
Ikula
Height
35 cm
Width
9 cm
Depth
2 cm
Provenance
Antique market
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.
