**Originally Listed At $200**

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kuba peoples, ca. late 19th to early 20th century. A ceremonial iron knife with a fortified wooden handle. Panels of zinc and brass have been hammered into the handle creating fine low relief geometric patterns. The double-edged blade has a leaf-shaped profile with a raised central ridge and outlined peripheries. Nice patina covers this weapon, which is among the very largest size for knives of this type. Size: 14.25" L x 4" W (36.2 cm x 10.2 cm)

The Kuba people had a kingdom comprised of many different ethnic groups from the 16th to late 19th century with a central court at Bushoong. Knives like these would have been used for ceremonial purposes, such as being worn by elites when they visited the courts. Chief Shamba-Bolongongo (1600-20) visited Benin early in his reign and introduced the iconic Kuba knife, known as the ikula, which was subsequently represented in Benin iconography of the time. The Kuba prospered in a society which valued material things and ordinary objects, particularly those associated to the Royal Court, were made to the highest standard. Their geogrpahic location and the ferocity of their warriors made them virtually free from predation of slavers though they themselves were among the most feared of slavers.

Provenance: ex Stein collection, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, USA, purchased September 9, 2019, ex Fagan Arms, Clinton Township, Michigan, USA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#163921

Surface wear commensurate with use and age. Minor chipping along the handle, where it meets the blade. Otherwise intact and in choice condition.