Poto Ngala Sword "Ikakalaka" NGOMBE - D.R. Congo. The iron knife is forged and decorated with tribal engravings. The sword is attributed to the peoples living in the northwest of D.R. Congo, such as the Yakoma, the Sango, the Ngbandi, the Poto, the Ngombe, the Doko and the Mbudja. This sword was usually called 'court sword' and was generally associated with granting a certain prestige to the owner. These swords were used as weapons, bridal wealth and were used during common ceremonies. In this way, these weapons quickly became the symbols of dignity or emblems of social position (Maes, J. & Lavachery, H. L'art nègre, and l'exposition du Palais des Beaux-Arts, 1930). For more information, see Barbier Mueller Museum, De Fer et de Fierté, page 147. Late 19th century/early 20th century. Material: iron, copper, wood. Dimensions; 55.6 cm long, 16.4 cm wide. Weight: 682 grams. In perfect condition.