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Ndjembo and Lobala

Double Blade Sword

Ndjembo or Lobala, 1800-1998

Scroll

Double Blade Sword

Ndjembo or Lobala, 1800-1998

Physical Qualities Iron, wood, copper alloy, 59.5 x 21 x 6.4 D cm.
Credit Line Gift of Philip Lee Davis, Key West, Florida
Object Number 2002.702
This short sword demonstrates the widespread popularity of ceremonial weapons in central Africa. Ndjembo, Lobala and Mozombo communities all adopted the implement as part of their royal insignia and modified the form to its current shape. Like the Poto blade with hide pommel, this erect blade echoes the form of a human figure.
Meditations on African Art: Pattern

Culture

Ndjembo

2000–2000

Meet Ndjembo →

Culture

Lobala

2000–2000

Meet Lobala →

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