Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Songye culture, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A wood and copper prestige axe with a crescent-shaped iron blade for ceremonial use as a scepter. The handle consists of a wood shaft completely covered with hammered sheets and twisted copper wires, circular indentations on the hafting end, and a flared pommel below the wire grip. The iron blade is decorated with both openwork and incised motifs- curvilinear and stippling etchings and piercings centered withing circular and triangular shapes. Although this axe served primarily a symbol of power, the sharpened blade edge suggests it could easily serve as a functional weapon if needed. Size: 14" L x 7.5" W (35.6 cm x 19 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-private Connecticut, USA collection

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#172163

Indentations and hairline fissures to copper sheets on handle and wire grip is slightly loose but secure. Dark toning and green patina. Iron blade has russet patina and minor surface wear. Otherwise, intact and very good.