Axe · D. R. Congo, Luba-Shankadi · ID: 3038143
not available anymore
Size
H: 39,5 cm
H: 15.6 inch
Description
wood, brown patina, metal, anthropomorphic head with cascade-like coiffure, the mortised blade emerging from the mouth, min. dam., slight traces of abrasion and corrosion;
aside their role as prestige emblems, axes carry more profound messages in Luba royal ritual. Above all they play a central role in the initiation rites of “mbudye”, an association responsible for inducting persons into royal office. The axe is the instrument used to clear the path.