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Short sword (ikul)
Kuba
early 20th century
Object Place: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Medium/Technique
Wood, copper alloy
Dimensions
Overall: 30 x 7 x 6 cm (11 13/16 x 2 3/4 x 2 3/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Geneviève McMillan in memory of Reba Stewart
Accession Number2009.2671
CollectionsContemporary Art, Africa and Oceania
ClassificationsArms and armor
This short sword (ikul) has delicately inlaid brass on its wooden handle, which recalls Kuba raffia mat patterns, and engraved fullers in its copper blade. Such short swords are associated with masculine power and Kuba royalty. Previously, swords such as this would have been carried by all adult Kuba men.
Provenance1970s, acquired in Paris by Geneviève McMillan (b. 1922 - d. 2008), Cambridge, MA; 2008, to the Geneviève McMillan and Reba Stewart Foundation, Cambridge; 2009, gift of the Geneviève McMillan and Reba Stewart Foundation to the MFA. (Accession Date: June 17, 2009)