Execution sword
Date20th century
Maker
Congolese
Maker
Ngombe
Label TextExtreme skill in smelting and forging iron is evident in central African blades. Blacksmiths acquired special knowledge to smelt with large amounts of charcoal and create blades as hard as steel. Before use, such blades were polished to a high gleam to appear white, the color of the force of lightning and the realm of the spirit.
Object number81.17.855
Credit LineGift of Katherine White and the Boeing Company
Dimensions6 7/16 x 21 5/8 in. (16.3 x 55 cm)
MediumIron and wood
log in
