Advanced Search 
Short sword (mambeli)
Boa / Angba / Hanga
20th century
Object Place: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Medium/Technique
Wood, iron
Dimensions
Overall: 62.9 x 12.7 cm (24 3/4 x 5 in.)
Lender accessory (Mount): 17.8 x 10.2 cm (7 x 4 in.)
Lender accessory (Mount): 17.8 x 10.2 cm (7 x 4 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Alan Helms
Accession Number2009.5114
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsContemporary Art, Africa and Oceania
ClassificationsWarfare, hunting, fishing – Swords, daggers, knives
In addition to being a functional blade, the mambeli short sword served as a symbol of prestige and as currency. Most were carried under the belt without a sheath. While their dimensions vary considerably—from 8 to 36 inches—the size of the handle is always relatively small.
The mambeli short sword was produced in large quantities by Boa (Ababua, Bobwa), Angba (including the Mongelima), and Hanga smiths and sold to patrons throughout the region, including in Bandia, Zande, Mangbetu, Nzakara, Barambo, Mba, Ndaaka, Bati, Binja, and Bengé communities. This type of sword was so pupular that it inspired many variations on the form by smiths working throughout the region.
The mambeli short sword was produced in large quantities by Boa (Ababua, Bobwa), Angba (including the Mongelima), and Hanga smiths and sold to patrons throughout the region, including in Bandia, Zande, Mangbetu, Nzakara, Barambo, Mba, Ndaaka, Bati, Binja, and Bengé communities. This type of sword was so pupular that it inspired many variations on the form by smiths working throughout the region.
ProvenanceAbout 2000, sold by L'Ile du Démon, Paris, to Alan Helms, Boston; 2009, gift of Alan Helms to the MFA. (Accession date: December 16, 2009)