Lot 98A

African Luba 19th C. Iron Short Sword in Wood Sheath

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African Luba 19th C. Iron Short Sword in Wood Sheath

Estimate: $500 - $750

Starting Bid: $250

(0 Bids)

October 2, 2025 8:00 AM MDT (In Progress)
Live Auction
Louisville, CO, US


Description:

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Luba peoples, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. An iron knife or short sword with a wooden sheath. The weapon features a broad petaloid blade with a subtle medial ridge and stippled outline, flaring gracefully toward the edges. The stocky wooden hilt rises to a flared knob pommel, one side etched with a rectangular motif reminiscent of scarification patterns used in Luba culture. The sheath is carved from two panels of wood, bound together with cane fiber cords, and displays incised linear and geometric designs on one side, leaving the other smooth. Warm patina throughout attests to traditional use and long handling. Size in sheath: 22.5" L x 5" W (57.2 cm x 12.7 cm); blade: 15.5" L x 4" W (39.4 cm x 10.2 cm)

Provenance: private Louisville, Kentucky, USA collection, acquired 1990-1998

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#197339

  • Condition: Dark patina and oxidation to blade. Wood handle has deep but stable pressure fissures, and has a lustrous patina. Wood sheath has some losses, chips, and old inactive insect holes.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000