Cleaver, Kuba : 2014.1.113

Title:

Sickle—shaped, Kuba Cleaver

Object Name:

Cleaver, Kuba

Other Name:

Cleaver, Kuba

Place of Origin:

Kuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa

Provenance:

Aboriginal Indigenous Art.
H = 17—1/2"
W = 6—1/2"
D = 1—1/4"

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 Historical documents indicate that quantities of them were brought to the Congo by Portuguese and Dutch traders beginning around the 16th century.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.

Description:

Large cleaver, sickle—shaped blade with sharp edge on outer rim. Brown wooden handle, with the top wrapped in brass wire.

Collection:

Finley Collection

Material:

Wood W/Brass and Iron

Used:

Ritually Used

Technique:

Metal Working / Carving

Owned:

Art Department, Missouri Southern State University