A Kuba Ikul from the Congo - SOLD

The Kuba kingdom first arose in the 17th century with its capital at Nsheng in the lands south of the Sankuru river in what is today the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The ikul was allegedly created as a "peace knife" by king Shyaam aMbul aNgoong in the 17th century, and it was first and foremost a status item worn by every adult male in the kingdom on his right hip.  The only exception to this rule being during the three day period of the new moon when imitation weapons made of wood were carried instead.
 
Perhaps surprisingly, the art of smithing was connected to royal status in the Congo and members of the Kuba royal family would themselves forge blades and other items out of iron. In fact, this part of Africa has been referred to as the "Land of the Blacksmith Kings".
 
This example has a broad, leaf-shaped blade with a pronounced central rib, and which is elegantly decorated with fine engraved lines. There is a small dent in one of the edges, but otherwise the blade is in good condition.
 
The carved wooden hilt is decorated with small slivers of metal in a pattern of lines and zig-zags. This decoration might show up very nicely with more cleaning. There is a very small age-related crack on the shoulder, but otherwise the entire assembly is firm and secure.
 
Blade length: 21.5 cm
Overall length: 31.5 cm
Late 19th - Early 20th century