Sword of dance and prestige. Ilwoon or Ilondo. Kuba, D. R. of Congo. XIXth century

Sword of dance and prestige. Ilwoon or Ilondo. Kuba, Democratic Republic of Congo. XIXth century
Iron, copper, wood.
Provenance :- Max Willborg, Stockholm, Sweden (1974)- Peter Willborg, Stockholm, Sweden
Measurements: 62,5 cm. length.

The Ilwoon or Ilondo sword is a type of ceremonial and prestige weapon used by the Kuba people, originally from the region now known as the Democratic Republic of Congo. It dates back to the 19th century and serves both a symbolic and aesthetic function. Ilwoon swords were mainly used in ceremonial contexts and to signal status, being carried by leaders or people of high rank within the Kuba society. The iron blade presents a curved design that gives it a distinctive appearance, not suitable for combat but to show skill in its manufacture and ornamentation.