A fine and long sickle shaped sword of the Azande from central Zaire (also used by the neighboring tribes, i.e. Boa, Binja and others). First part of 20th. Modeled similarly to a sickle this central Zaire sword was used as a throwing projectile. Wide flat partially single edge blade with a deep curve to the tip which is double edged and pierced. The well forged, wide, sickle-shaped blade finely fullered, partially single edged, the long double edged expanded tip decorated with dense parallel lines. The back side of the blade with without fullers, engraved geometrical decor in places. The ricasso area with a double sided crescent (axe-head) shaped protrusion. Blade has been cleaned The handle is carved from hardwood, with metal inlays (few missing) in the middle for a better grip and decorative purposes, the lower part is tightly wrapped in thick iron tape, iron loop on top. Total length - 85,3 cm, length of the blade - 75 cm. Weight - 667 g. The word Azande means the people who possess much land, and refers to their history as conquering warriors. In the early 19th century, the Bandia people ruled over the Vungara and the two groups became the Azande people. This curved sword is a variant of one of many types of curved swords in Sub-Saharan Africa of many names but most known as the mambele swords. They can be wielded to great and deadly effect in battle. Provenance: private collection, The Netherlands. Conditions report: very good overall condition, regular age- and use-related wear. Some cracks to the wooden handle, few inlays missing. Blade in very good condition, with minor surface oxidation, without deep pitting.