Ceremonial Axe from the Luba-Shankadi People of DR Congo

Ceremonial axe from the Luba-Shankadi people of DR Congo from the early Early 20th century , before 1930.
Wood and metal, copper blade. Glossy layered patina.
H= 40 cm. 42 cm with the included metal stand.

Such axes were prestige objects not only of Luba kings and chiefs, but also high ranking officials, female mediums, members of secret societies and diviners. The were won on the shoulder to indicate the hierarchical position, or held during dances and other ceremonies related to the court.

Used by a member of the Luba elite, objects like these elevated the social rank of its owner. Its function is to carve and show the rank in society, itself is a work of art requiring tens or hours to create.

PROVENANCE: Gäetan Schoonbroodt collection in Verviers before 1970.

Among peoples in southeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and northern Angola, figurative axes were symbols of political office. The head of this axe shows the blade as a tonguelike extension.

The Luba empire exist since the XVIth century. Ceremonial axe from the Luba Luba Shankadi servants scarce on the market, is the most valuable of the sub tribes, due to the cascade coiffure.

David Norden is a third generation antique dealers, dealing in African Art in Antwerp-Belgium since 1992.
This Ceremonial axe from the Luba-Shankadi people of DR Congo from David Norden's collection is sold with a written description of the tribe and David Norden's private opinion .
May be viewed or picked up in David Norden's Buy African Antiques Shop in Antwerp.
Free shipping.
Please note: seller guarantees the authenticity of this axe.