Kota
Ceremonial Knife (Musele)
Kota, 1866-1932
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Kota
Ceremonial Knife (Musele)
Kota, 1866-1932
Physical Qualities
Iron, wood, copper alloy, 12 13/16 in. (32.5 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Bernice Barth, Los Angeles
Object Number
1997.225
The design of this blade, with its dramatic sweep and ocular triangular opening, has prompted suggestions that it represents the head of a bird. There is scant evidence to support this connection, however. Instead, the dynamic shapes and reflective materials of this blade once focused attention on a leader or ritual specialist as he danced at the initiation of new members to the Mungala men’s society. Such treasured forms were also left on the tombs of leaders.
Karen Milbourne, BMA, "Meditations on African Art: PATTERN," March 12-August 17, 2008
