Pair of Symmetrical Knives
Lélé / Wongo, West Kasaï, Central D.R. Congo
Iron, wood, accumulation
Early 20th century

The larger short sword seen here was known as Phoogo ya Kusa, and came from the Lélé and Wongo, two cultures living southwest of the Kuba, from whom they borrowed many customs and sculptural styles. Such swords were reserved for chiefs and other high-ranking notables (Elsen, De Fer et De fierté, 2003).

The smaller short sword is a British-manufactured blade that was re-forged by an African blacksmith to resemble the traditional Lélé / Wongo style; a handle carved with traditional designs was added as well. Such European-made blades were distributed and traded widely across the continent. This sword blade wears Ralph Martindale maker's mark (a crocodile) and the words "Made in England."

Both sword handles shows considerable signs of age and handling.

18 in :: 46 cm /

InventoryID #13-3014

Price on Request