Antique Large Ceremonial Knife – Ngombe / Doko – Ubangi Region, Northern Congo

Early 20th century. Iron blade, wooden handle with brass mountings. Length: 49.50 cm (19.49 in). Weight: 452 g (15.94 oz).

A finely forged ceremonial knife from the Ubangi region, attributed to the Ngombe or closely related Doko groups. The broad, leaf-shaped iron blade tapers to a rounded point and features a distinctive central panel of finely incised, converging linear motifs forming an elongated chevron pattern. Two small perforations appear symmetrically near the lower section of the blade.

The hilt is composed of a wooden grip wrapped with tightly wound metal wire, surmounted by a flared wooden pommel. The guard, made of brass, is wide and slightly arched with lateral projections and a textured, punched surface, adding both visual richness and structural definition.

This type of knife reflects the refined metallurgical and decorative traditions of the Ubangi area, where such blades often held ceremonial, symbolic, or prestige-related functions rather than purely utilitarian use.

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