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 the typical central rib, and engraved linear decoration. The engraving is noticeably deep and crisp. The blade has suffered a lot of pitting, unfortunately.

The carved wooden hilt has a lovely, deep patina. Although there is a large age-related crack on each side of the hilt, such cracks are fairly common with antique African weapons in my experience. Otherwise, the entire assembly is firm and secure

Blade length: 27.5 cm

Overall length: 39 cm

Late 19th - Early 20th century