Luba Prestige adze, Democratic Republic of Congo
early to mid 20th century, definite signs of age and use
wood, aluminum, brass tacks, iron
16" tall x 9" deep
Provenance: From a private Boston collection, US.
Luba adzes with human heads were prestige objects, belonging to the most important members of society
from royalty and titleholders to female spirit mediums and diviners. The adzes were worn over the shoulder to
signify rank.
They played a central role in the initiation rites of Mbudye, the association responsible for inducting
persons into royal office. It is described as the instrument used to clear the path leading to
civilization. The marks on the blades of the axes are called ntapo. They represent the scarification patterns
worn by women that were used to communicate identity and social status.
The wooden handles of these adzes were often highly decorated with carved motifs or covered in precious
metals. The handle of this beautiful example is covered in aluminum strips. Although not considered a
precious metal in the West, when it was introduced into African culture it became a highly prestigious metal
and was often traded for gold.
Additional information and examples can be found in the book "Memory: Luba Art and the Making of History", pages 76-78.
Inventory # RT35
$1500
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