Kongo Sword

[chregu]

Hi
This is my current Fund.
can someone help with the provision?
How old is this part?
Is the condition good?
how rare is such a thing?
many thanks for your help.
gruss Chregu

[Tim Simmons]

These are said to be from people called Ngala and I am sure others in the region. Freddy, Luc and Martin will probably have more to say about them. I have this version sorry the picture lacks detail. The engraving is not done with the same harmony to form of blade as in your version. I like your version the most, very sophisticated balance of thin flexible blade with exuberant abstract fullers and engraving complimenting the shape of the blade. Good ones like yours are not the most common items. Late 19th cent early 20th cent. Bearing in mind what I say about them I cannot understand why they are not more expensive than a great many other swords like talwar, kaskara, dha and the like.

[Luc LEFEBVRE]

Nice exemple, in good condition of a Ngombe Doko also Ngala execution knife.
Probably late 19th cent early 20th cent as Tim said.
See one of my collection and some docs.

[chregu]

Hello Tim and Luc

many thanks for your help.
I've read that the pieces were used for rituals.
can someone explain to me why?
gruss Chregu

[Martin Lubojacky]

Hi Christoph,
M. Zirngibl in his Afrikanische Waffen writes this execution knife became a symbol of power - and became a "ceremonial knife for tribal chiefs". - So I would understand something like sceptre/truncheon. But I would say (personal view) your nice "heavy duty" piece is (at least also usable as) real execution weapon.
Regards,
Martin

[Luc LEFEBVRE]

exemples