Knife
Kuba
Description
Subject Matter:
With its characteristic leaf-like shape and dulled blade, the ceremonial knife or, Ikul, was introduced as a peaceful replacement to the warrior throwing knife. It is typically carried by men as a symbol for prestige, warriorhood and authority. As a ceremonial object, It would also have been part of a noble man's daily costume, worn on the right side under the belt. At times, representations of an ikul could also be found on an Ndop: a carved figurative sculpture created to commemorate a Kuba king. This particular knife is covered with tukula powder called tool or twool. Made from ground camwood, tukula was used abundantly on Kuba carvings. It was also smeared on clothing and used in times of mourning.
References:
Daniel Biebuyck, The Arts of Zaire, 1985
Jan Vansina, The Children of Woot, 1978
Physical Description:
Wooden knife with a leaf shaped blade. The center of the blade has a carved line running down the length of the blade. The knife has patination. There is tukula powder rubbed on the knife.
Usage Rights:
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