Adze: Iyol Society Insignia
Kuba, D.R. Congo
Wood, copper
Early-Mid 20th century

The Kuba carved many different types of prestige objects as insignia of inclusion in the iyol military association — mostly drinking cups and drums, but also unique objects such as this adze. The iyol soldier’s society, also known as yolo, was reserved for masters of war, and one requirement for admission was the presentation of a killed enemy’s severed hand as proof of their courage. This adze’s combination of form and pattern references two other important forms of Kuba art — raffia textiles (patterns on the blade) and masks — demonstrating the interconnected nature of Kuba prestige arts (Bascom, African Art in Cultural Perspective, 1973; Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1978.412.661 and 2013.623).

13.5 in :: 34.5 cm

InventoryID #13-2380

Price on Request