Zande Status Knife, Democratic Republic of the Congo

the handle made from African elephant (Loxodonta africana) ivory.

Private Collection, Brussels
Acquired by the present owner from the above

Very good condition for an object of this type and age. Minor marks, nicks, scratches, abrasions, and dents. Minor hairline age cracks to ivory handle. Aged, oxidized surface to blade with encrustation. Fine rubbed light cream-colored patina to handle.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The elaborate design of this status object takes the form of a throwing knife, of a general type produced in numerous variations throughout central Africa.  As Zirngibl (1983: 78) notes, "[t]hrowing weapons, also called throwing knives because of their having several branch-like blades, have been the subject of several contradictory studies.  The question of their origin, development, design, throwing technique and especially their classification remains unanswered.  Their function though is undisputed, namely through their multiple blades to intimidate the enemy (demoralizing effect).  In fact, they were only thrown when danger was acute.  According to reports of old, the injuries sustained by those wounded by such weapons were often of the severest nature."  However with its ivory handle, finely cast blade, and rich chased decoration, the present knife cannot have been intended for use in combat but rather was meant to project the high status and power of its owner, the fearsome barbs delicately decorated, and the overall design presenting an elegant, visually appealing silhouette.  Cf. a closely related knife collected before 1881, published by Fischer and Zirngibl (1978: 57, cat. 75, and cover).