Poto Knife

Knife, Poto

Knife, Poto, Kuba

Kuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa

Aboriginal Indigenous Art.
H = 23—1/2"
W = 3—1/2"
D = 1—1/2"

Knives, daggers and swords from the Kuba people are used as prestige items. Historical documents indicate that quantities of them were brought to the Congo by Portuguese and Dutch traders beginning around the 16th century. Many weapons were then forged by Congolese blacksmiths to emulate foreign examples. They were reserved for nobles and used for important ceremonial occasions.

This weapon has a large ball crafted onto the handle, which is made of woven raffia and also some animal hide pieces. These pommels are said to contain magical substances which gives these knifes their power. Also faint traces of decorative paint may have been applied to each side of blade. These knives where used durning ceremonies, for weapons as well as for bride price.

Leaf—shaped planished blade, with handle resembling a figure with large head wrapped in cloth. Neck, shoulders and arms wrapped in split bamboo raffia. Flattened arms and body extending from handle to hilt, forming figure.

Finley Collection

Iron W/Raffia and Cloth

Ritually Used

Metal Working / Weaving

Art Department, Missouri Southern State University

2014.1.114