Nagata Prestige Blade
Mangbetu, D.R. Congo
Iron, wood
19th century

The Nagata (or Nagala) show knife is less common than the Mangbetu's famous Emambele show knife, and was an important symbol of high prestige.

The Nagata/Nagala sickle knife was worn by men during visits, palavers, and ceremonious social gatherings. Its fancy details and finish gave the bearer a certain distinction and enhanced his reputation and wealth. While it was primarily used for show purposes only, it was also occasionally used to cut branches or for farm work (Schildkrout & Keim, African Reflections: Art From Northeastern Zaire, 1990).

This long, thin example is an older type. Interestingly, the two sides of the blade show very different surfaces: one side is very evenly corroded, while the other side is in pristine condition. This suggests the piece was laid on one side for many years. 

20.25 in 51.5 cm

InventoryID #13-2666

Price on Request