Object Details
- Label Text
- Because iron was difficult to create, it was associated with leadership and power. Decorated axes like this one were insignia of rank and were often displayed in ceremonies as symbols of wealth and prestige. In some cases these axes were also used as currency. The Songye, especially the Nsapo group, are known for their axes with ornamental blades. The number of spokes, bands and relief elements vary greatly but the technical skill represented by the forged iron is uniformly high. This axe features relief faces on the spokes. While some handles are plain polished wood, others, like this one, are covered with high prestige copper alloy.
- Description
- Iron axe blade with wood handle covered with copper sheet. Axe blade has three interior spokes with relief faces.
- Provenance
- ex-collection Helena Rubinstein (per Simpson appraisal)
- Arthur A. Cohen, New York, -- to 1967
- Content Statement
- As part of our commitment to accessibility and transparency, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art is placing its collection records online. Please note that some records are incomplete (missing image or content descriptions) and others reflect out-of-date language or systems of thought regarding how to engage with and discuss cultural heritage and the specifics of individual artworks. If you see content requiring immediate action, we will do our best to address it in a timely manner. Please email nmafacuratorial@si.edu if you have any questions.
- Image Requests
- High resolution digital images are not available for some objects. For publication quality photography and permissions, please contact the Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives at https://africa.si.edu/research/eliot-elisofon-photographic-archives/
- Data Source
- National Museum of African Art
- Maker
- Songye artist
- Date
- Mid 20th century
- Credit Line
- Gift of Arthur A. Cohen
- Medium
- Wood, iron, copper sheet
- Dimensions
- H x W x D: 43.2 × 41.3 × 1.9 cm (17 × 16 1/4 × 3/4 in.)
- Type
- Sculpture
