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Short sword
Luba
mid-20th century
Object Place: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Medium/Technique
Metal
Dimensions
Overall: 49.5 cm (19 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
Anonymous gift
Accession Number2006.2041
CollectionsAfrica and Oceania
ClassificationsWarfare, hunting, fishing – Swords, daggers, knives
This short sword with its formidable blade was used as a chief's insignia among the Luba, Nkutshu, Binji, and Lulua. A Luba blacksmith likely prodcued this iron blade, the symmetrical curved lines in relief demonstrating his mastery of the form. Forged from local iron, this is considered the classic Luba style of prestige sword.
ProvenanceBetween January 1992 and December 1993, sold by Amyas Naegle, New York, to anonymous donors; 2006, anonymous year-end gift to the MFA. (Accession Date: January 24, 2007)