Axe ·  R. D. Congo, Shankadi · ID: 3030806

Description

wood, brown patina, metal, a round, slightly waisted shaft, supporting an anthropomorphic head with a cascade-like coiffure, the mortised blade growing out of its mouth, brass nails for decoration, min. dam., minor missing parts (metal tags), on 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.

Littérature comparée

Fischer, Werner, Zirngibl, Manfred A., Afrikanische Waffen, Passau 1978, p. 137, ill. 247