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Knife

c. 1900
Iron, wood, copper alloy, upholstery studs, plant fibers, and rawhide
Overall: 57.2 cm (22 1/2 in.); Blade: 41.4 cm (16 5/16 in.)
Gift of J. H. Wade 1916.743
Location: not on view
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Description

This beautifully wrought knife served as a symbol of political authority among the Ngala. Quite literally it signified the power of life and death for its form was derived from that of an executioner's knife.
Knife

Knife

c. 1900

Africa, Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Bangala-style maker

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