Double circular bladed sword, Bango

Double Sickle Blade, bango or bwagogambanza.
Lobala / Mondzombo / Ngbaka / Bondjo, D.R. Congo

This sword is prevalent among the Lobala and Ngbaka communities in central Zaire.

Numerous legends surround its use in executions or ceremonies. Regardless of the truth of these stories, the sword remains highly striking and has always been seen as a symbol of prestige.

In its abstract human form, the Bango blade exhibits both symmetry and refinement. Elsen defines the role of this type of blade as "luxury weapons for notables and chiefs." They were also used ceremonially, notably in initiation rites for young men (Gosseau, Tribal Arms Monographs Vol. 1 Nº2 , 1997).

This particular example features a double blade, measuring 52,3 cm in length with a finely forged edge. The hilt is crafted from wood with a faceted finish. Both the top of the hilt and the base of the blade are wrapped in copper strips.

The sword is in excellent condition, retaining its original steel blackening surface with a small dots pattern. Also the most part of the edge retains the striped pattern.

Brooklyn Museum example. 22361

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This particular example features a double blade, measuring 52,3 cm in length with a finely forged edge. The hilt is crafted from wood with a faceted finish. Both the top of the hilt and the base of the blade are wrapped in copper strips.

The sword is in excellent condition, retaining its original steel blackening surface with a small dots pattern. Also the most part of the edge retains the striped pattern.

Dating, Early 20th century.

Iron, wood, copper wire.

Overall length: 52,3 cm.

Max width: 18,6 cm.

Weight, 564 grams.