While generally attributed in the literature to the Poto peoples, this type of sword with its hide wrapped pommel and broad split blade was found among several neighboring peoples along the upper Congo River, including the Ngombe and the Ngbandi peoples. It was routinely carried by men. The hide pommels contained protective herbal medicines and, although not now retaining visible fur, would have been made of civet cat or leopard. These felines were clever predators, and their fur was prized as emblems of status and high rank.
Description:
Broad iron blade with pointed tip and incised linear decoration. Top portion of blade is divided into three tapered forms ending in a rectangular bar covered in copper sheeting, with a handle shaft wrapped in copper alloy strips. Pommel is wrapped in roughly ovoid form of stitched hide.
Provenance:
Harold Rome, New York, -- to 1980
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