Short sword with carved wooden hilt, one brass stud, and copper wirework. Sharp blade with incised decoration on both sides.

Ngbandi or Ngbandi-Yakoma people, Congo.

Late 19th century.

Wood, iron, copper, brass

Blade is sharp, not a tourist object but authentic. Age appropriate, wood loss to pommel.

Length 39.5 cm / 15 1/2 in.

From an American collection. Possibly from a museum. Old label: "86-114 Ngbandi knife Upper Zaire 15 1/2" L"