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 of 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.
The geometric patterns on the handle of this knife are similar to patterns found on Kuba textile, basketry, sculpture, and female body scarifications.
References:
Daniel Biebuyck, The Arts of Zaire, 1985
Georges Meurant, African Textiles from the Kingdom of Kuba, 1986
Jan Vansina, The Children of Woot, 1978
Physical Description:
A knife with a leaf shaped blade. Running vertically down the center of the blade is a gridded square pattern. The handle is also engraved with lines that wrap around the entire handle.
Usage Rights:
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