Poto Ngombe sword
€240.00
Elegant Poto Ngombe prestige knife from northern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Its long iron blade is narrow and slightly lance-shaped, with fine longitudinal incised decoration. The upper section is particularly striking, with an openwork construction surmounted by metal fittings and a substantial terminal element covered with animal material.
Among the Poto and neighbouring peoples of the Ubangi region, such knives went far beyond a purely utilitarian function. Worn as prestige weapons and status symbols, they expressed male identity, rank and authority. The refined silhouette, decorative metalwork and elaborate handle construction all reflect this social as well as aesthetic dimension.
The combination of the iron blade, openwork structure and sculptural terminal element gives this example a particularly distinctive visual presence.
Shipping fees
02746
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Circa 1930
- Size
- 65 cm
- Material(s)
- Metal
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Condition
- Vintage
Elegant Poto Ngombe prestige knife from northern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Its long iron blade is narrow and slightly lance-shaped, with fine longitudinal incised decoration. The upper section is particularly striking, with an openwork construction surmounted by metal fittings and a substantial terminal element covered with animal material.
Among the Poto and neighbouring peoples of the Ubangi region, such knives went far beyond a purely utilitarian function. Worn as prestige weapons and status symbols, they expressed male identity, rank and authority. The refined silhouette, decorative metalwork and elaborate handle construction all reflect this social as well as aesthetic dimension.
The combination of the iron blade, openwork structure and sculptural terminal element gives this example a particularly distinctive visual presence.