Ceremonial adze

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Description

wood, metal, base

A very similar object is published in Bourgeois,1985, Plate VI, Fig. 1.

Both axes are crowned by sculptured heads with coiffures in the form of a prominent crest, as was customary for tribal elders in early times. The distinctive angular scarifications are also found on both.

The Suku adze “khaandu” belongs to the insignia of a “leemba”, a lineage headman. As a symbol of office, he carried it over his left shoulder when he visited members of the family on official business.

“Khaandu” could also belong to the regalia of a superior, regional chief, as well as to a diviner “nganga ngoombu”.

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Comparing literature

Bourgeois, Arthur P., The Yaka and Suku, Leiden 1985, Plate VI, ill. 1 & 2 Bourgeois, Arthur P., The Yaka and Suku, Leiden 1985, p. 45 f.

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