"Phoogo Ya Kusa" Short Sword

Origin: Wongo Tribe, D.R. Congo
Composition: forged iron, wood, animal hide (on sheath)

This type of double-edged short sword comes from the Wongo tribe, who live southwest of the famous Kuba kingdom in central D.R. Congo. Their artwork, blades, and textiles are very unique, yet also exhibit much artistic influence from the Kuba (ref: Elsen, "De fer et de fierté").

This piece is particularly old, and appears to have its original handle, which also shows impressive signs of age and use. Despite being an implement of power, it is incredibly graceful. It bears striking similarities to the piece published in Werner Fischer's 1978 "Afrikanische Waffen," pictured below.