Axe
D. R. Congo, Luba
not available anymore
Provenance
Jan Lundberg, Malmö, SwedenSize
H: 37,5 cm
H: 14.8 inch
Description
wood, brown patina, iron, metal tags, anthropomorphic head with cascade-like coiffure, the mortised blade emerging from the mouth, min. dam., slight traces of abrasion and corrosion, base;
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.