Zemanek-Münster

Sickle knife "trumbash", "dupa", "emambele"

D. R. Congo, Mangbetu
sold EUR 450
Provenance
Georges François Wtterwulghe (1871-1904), Belgian Commandant of the Lado Enclave, January 1903 - March 1904 (died 8 May 1904 in Yei)
Size
H: 34,5 cm
H: 13.6 inch

Description

steel, ivory,
Due to their sickle shape, these unusual knives have long been mistakenly assigned to being throwing weapons.

For the Mangbetu the “trumbash” were pure ceremonial and prestige weapons, which were made in different designs and materials.

“Trumbash” with handles made of ivory, as is the case with this object, were reserved exclusively for dignitaries. Their artfully crafted handles turn them into distinct treasures and sought-after collector’s items.


Notices

This object is subject to CITES. Please note that it can only be sent within the European Union. At the present time export in third countries is prohibited, respectively, export licenses in third countries for objects containing or made of protected materials are only granted under stringent conditions.


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