**Originally Listed At $200**

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Songye culture, ca. first half of the 20th century CE. An attractive prestige axe with a broad, openwork copper blade bearing a crescent-shaped head incised with an intricate curvilinear crucifix. The blade tangs taper to form a triangular profile and are inserted through the upper head and bent to secure it in place. The carved wooden handle features a uniform shaft and a bulbous upper portion that is incised with tall panels of linear and geometric motifs on both sides. The Songye people live in the central eastern part of the modern-day Democratic Republic of Congo, in the region known as the African Great Lakes. Their metalwork, traditionally done by Songye men, was held in high prestige and traded extensively with their neighbors throughout the 20th century. An axe like this was likely never used as a weapon, but would have been ceremonial. Size: 12.9" L x 5.75" W (32.8 cm x 14.6 cm)

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA

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#149841

Slight bending to blade profile with loosening to tangs within mortise, minor nicks to handle, and darkening to some surfaces, otherwise intact and very good. Nice patina throughout.