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Requires Photography
Knife
Luba
20th century
Object Place: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Medium/Technique
Iron, wood
Dimensions
Height x width: 14 9/16 x 4 3/4 in. (37 x 12 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Geneviève McMillan in memory of Reba Stewart
Accession Number2009.2547
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsContemporary Art, Africa and Oceania
ClassificationsWarfare, hunting, fishing – Swords, daggers, knives
Iron knives, swords, and other weapons are more than armaments; they are powerful symbols of prestige and authority. Many weapons are intricately adorned with abstract geometric patterns, figurative elements, western-made objects, and copper accents, all of which are intended to increase the status of the object's owner. In addition to the functional and ceremonial aspects of African weaponry, iron blades were excellent trade items that could function as currency.
This luba cult knife is noted for the serpentine form of its blade. Although the blade of this handle is not adorned with a carved human head, many Luba knives and axes are so adorned. The handle of this blade has carved geometric patterns.
This luba cult knife is noted for the serpentine form of its blade. Although the blade of this handle is not adorned with a carved human head, many Luba knives and axes are so adorned. The handle of this blade has carved geometric patterns.
Provenance1970s, acquired in Paris by Geneviève McMillan (b. 1922 - d. 2008), Cambridge, MA; 2008, to the Geneviève McMillan and Reba Stewart Foundation, Cambridge; 2009, gift of the Geneviève McMillan and Reba Stewart Foundation to the MFA. (Accession Date: June 17, 2009)