Sickles

North Congo

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According to Jan Elsen sickles are some one of the oldest type of weapon from northern Congo. It is not clear they derivated from throwing knives or, to the contrary, influenced their formation. On this type of "sword" the cutting edge in on the interior of the curved blade. It is not difficult to understand, in hand, why these were deadly weapons. 

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I have selected these three examples for the workmanship, the effort put into the forge first. I particularly enjoy details such as the panneling work. Another criteria I look for when selecting a sickle are "clear lines". Finally, the regularity and symmetry of the incised motives are also attesting of a weapon made with attention. Together, these aspects elevate a weapon to a work of art.

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Left piece (56 cm) and center piece (65 cm) are Mbenge, Nsakara, Bandia and come from a french private collection. 

Right piece (66 cm) is Ngombe, Doko, Mbudja and comes from Ethan Rider. 

All three are late 19th to very early 20th century. 

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Price (from left to right): 800 euros, 600 euros, 700 Euros enquiry

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