The Nzappa zap: A Traditional Weapon From The Congo By The Songye Ethnic Group

It has an ornate wrought-iron blade connected to a club-like wooden handle, often clad in copper, bronze or brass. Largely ceremonial, it can be used much like the American tomahawk, both thrown for short distances and as a melee weapon in hand-to-hand combat. It differs from the Read More …

A Ceremonial Axe, Made By The Chokwe or Lunda People Of Today’s Democratic Republic of the Congo. Early 1900s

In this single work, the artist employed chiseling, punching, inlaying, chasing, engraving, scoring, raising, wrapping, stamping and embossing, among other techniques. Such a blade added to a blacksmith’s honor and influence in the community, with both owner and artist distinguished Read More …

A Combat Knife from the Mongo, Saka, and Kutu People in the D.R. Congo

The Combat Knife from the Mongo, Saka, and Kutu People in the Democratic Republic of Congo holds profound cultural and historical significance. Crafted with precision and skill, this traditional weapon is emblematic of the rich heritage and ancestral traditions of Read More …

Ikakalaka: The African Konda Sword of the Mongo People

The Ikakalaka, also known as the African Konda sword, embodies a rich historical and cultural significance that traces back to the 19th century among the Mongo people in the northwestern regions of the present-day Democratic Republic of the Congo. These Read More …

The Ngombe Ngulu Sword: Africa’s Legendary Warrior Blade and Heritage

The Ngombe Ngulu sword is truly a fascinating and enigmatic weapon that has captured the imagination of people around the world. Its distinct and somewhat unsettling appearance has contributed to its reputation as one of the most intriguing swords to Read More …