AF635: Mangbetu Sword

A fine old and classic Mangbetu sword. The finely forged blade is sharp on both the concave and convex sides of the blade, like a large claw. The center of the blade is raised and thick with three lugsand three holes. The wood handle is almost entirely covered with brass wire and there are brass tacks on the butt end. The whole sword has a good dark patina from age and use. A fine example of one of the many variations of Mangbetu swords.    

14 3/4" tall by 7 3/4" wide. 19th or early 20th century, D. R. Congo, Africa.