war axe - Ascia - Fang - Gabon
01
day
15
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07
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Current bid
€ 245
Reserve price met
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier
With almost a decade of experience bridging science, museum curation, and traditional blacksmithing, Julien has developed a unique expertise in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 270 - € 300
6 other people are watching this object
 Bidder 6167 | €245 | |
|---|---|---|
| Bidder 6167 | €240 | |
| Bidder 6167 | €200 | |
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Description from the seller
Authentic Fang people's war axe – Gabon, Central Africa.
Exceptional example of a traditional African weapon, belonging to the Fang culture, known for its martial strength and great skill in metalworking.
This axe is a true weapon of war, not just a ceremonial object. Its solid, essential structure and lack of excessive decoration confirm its military purpose, in contrast to more ornate ritual weapons.
Era: 20th century
Origin: Gabon, Central Africa
Dimensions: Total length 53 cm
Materials: hand-forged iron and wood.
• Conditions: Good condition considering the era; obvious signs of wear and authentic patina.
The steel blade is attached to the handle via an ancient wooden rivet. It should be noted that the attachment is not perfectly secure: the blade can be easily removed.
Visible chips, cracks, and damages consistent with the age of the object are clearly documented in the attached photographs.
Historical note
The Fang war axes were real combat tools, used in conflicts and tribal defense. The simplicity of their design—functional and devoid of unnecessary ornamentation—is typical of weapons intended for practical use rather than ceremonial purposes.
Shipping:
The item will be carefully packed and shipped with a tracking number from Switzerland.
I do not accept responsibility for any delays, damages, or losses caused by transportation.
Attention: delivery times may be very long, and shipping costs higher than usual standards.
Customs costs may also be applied to shipments within Europe; these costs are the responsibility of the buyer.
In case of package refusal, the initial shipping costs will be refunded, and payment for a new shipment will be required.
Origin
Swiss private collection
Authentic Fang people's war axe – Gabon, Central Africa.
Exceptional example of a traditional African weapon, belonging to the Fang culture, known for its martial strength and great skill in metalworking.
This axe is a true weapon of war, not just a ceremonial object. Its solid, essential structure and lack of excessive decoration confirm its military purpose, in contrast to more ornate ritual weapons.
Era: 20th century
Origin: Gabon, Central Africa
Dimensions: Total length 53 cm
Materials: hand-forged iron and wood.
• Conditions: Good condition considering the era; obvious signs of wear and authentic patina.
The steel blade is attached to the handle via an ancient wooden rivet. It should be noted that the attachment is not perfectly secure: the blade can be easily removed.
Visible chips, cracks, and damages consistent with the age of the object are clearly documented in the attached photographs.
Historical note
The Fang war axes were real combat tools, used in conflicts and tribal defense. The simplicity of their design—functional and devoid of unnecessary ornamentation—is typical of weapons intended for practical use rather than ceremonial purposes.
Shipping:
The item will be carefully packed and shipped with a tracking number from Switzerland.
I do not accept responsibility for any delays, damages, or losses caused by transportation.
Attention: delivery times may be very long, and shipping costs higher than usual standards.
Customs costs may also be applied to shipments within Europe; these costs are the responsibility of the buyer.
In case of package refusal, the initial shipping costs will be refunded, and payment for a new shipment will be required.
Origin
Swiss private collection
Details
Indigenous object name
Ascia
No. of items
1
Ethnic group/ culture
Fang
Country of Origin
Gabon
Material
Steel, Wood
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
war axe
Height
53 cm
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.
