Sword Item Number: K4.17 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Black metal sword with a blunt, flaring blade and a round, disk-like pommel. Arabesque knot designs on the blade and simple geometric designs on the handle.
History Of Use
Ilwoons (or ilondo) are carried by high-ranking Kuba men as a symbol of status. These weapons are traditionally meant to be kept hidden in a sheath in times of peace, as they are a symbol of war and power. Ilwoons are also carried by men as part of their ceremonial garb for important funerals, were they are used during ritual dances. Their status is additionally derived from the value placed on ironworking. It was a culturally important practice because of the plentiful iron ore deposits available in the region.
Item History
- Made in Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Owned by British Museum before August 1960
- Received from British Museum (Exchanger) during August 1960
What
Who
- Culture
- Kuba
- Previous Owner
- British Museum
- Received from
- British Museum (Exchanger)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
When
- Ownership Date
- before August 1960
- Acquisition Date
- during August 1960
Other
- Item Classes
- metalwork
- Condition
- fair
- Accession Number
- 0022/0013 a