Short sword "Ikul" - Shoowa-Kuba - DR Congo
05
days
18
hours
00
minutes
26
seconds
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 € 260 - € 290
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Description from the seller
• Ikul Shoowa-kuba Knife
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Total length: 37.5 cm
• Period: early 20th century
• Weight: 357 g
• Materials: forged red copper, wood, zinc (imbek)
• Provenance: Eve Auction House, Paris - France
— Historically, every adult Kuba man wore an ikul. As in many other cultures, this sword symbolized virility. The Kuba are renowned for their smithing craft and the importance they place on the community’s blacksmith. Blacksmithing was considered, just like weaving and a few other arts, a royal art. This explains why bearing arms was perceived by the Kuba not only as a cultural symbol of class, virility, and warriorhood, but also of royalty.
— The ikul was conceived and created by King Shyaam aMbul aNgoong in the early 17th century and was initially worn exclusively by the Kuba of the Bushoong clan, then in power, as a symbol of peace. The idea that a weapon could serve as a symbol of peace may seem paradoxical, but it faithfully reflects the fact that peace is often guaranteed only by a government with effective military strength.
— Careful, insured delivery with tracking number. (Bpost)
• Ikul Shoowa-kuba Knife
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Total length: 37.5 cm
• Period: early 20th century
• Weight: 357 g
• Materials: forged red copper, wood, zinc (imbek)
• Provenance: Eve Auction House, Paris - France
— Historically, every adult Kuba man wore an ikul. As in many other cultures, this sword symbolized virility. The Kuba are renowned for their smithing craft and the importance they place on the community’s blacksmith. Blacksmithing was considered, just like weaving and a few other arts, a royal art. This explains why bearing arms was perceived by the Kuba not only as a cultural symbol of class, virility, and warriorhood, but also of royalty.
— The ikul was conceived and created by King Shyaam aMbul aNgoong in the early 17th century and was initially worn exclusively by the Kuba of the Bushoong clan, then in power, as a symbol of peace. The idea that a weapon could serve as a symbol of peace may seem paradoxical, but it faithfully reflects the fact that peace is often guaranteed only by a government with effective military strength.
— Careful, insured delivery with tracking number. (Bpost)
Details
Ethnic group/ culture
Shoowa-Kuba
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Early 20th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Excellent condition
Title of artwork
Short sword "Ikul"
Height
37.5 cm
Weight
357 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.
