An Important Collection of Art from Africa and Oceania

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September 03, 2026 at 2:00 pm ET

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LOT 42

Lot 42

Luba Shankadi Ceremonial Figural Axe, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, 19th/early 20th century

Luba Shankadi Ceremonial Figural Axe, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, 19th/early 20th century
Lot 42 Details
Luba Shankadi Ceremonial Figural Axe, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, 19th/early 20th century

carved wood featuring a head form finial with four incised ridges, the median crest adorned with metal and brass tacks to cylindrical shaft and metal blade inserted in the mouth with a band of hammered dots on each side; accompanied by a copy of the purchase receipt
15 x 7 x 2 in — 38.1 x 17.8 x 5.1 cm
Marked with white ink A.18. to the underside of the head.

Estimate $1,200-$1,800

Realised: $1,152
Price Includes Buyer's Premium ?

Lot Report

Additional Images
Luba Shankadi Ceremonial Figural Axe, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, 19th/early 20th century
  • Luba Shankadi Ceremonial Figural Axe, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, 19th/early 20th century
  • Luba Shankadi Ceremonial Figural Axe, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, 19th/early 20th century
  • Luba Shankadi Ceremonial Figural Axe, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, 19th/early 20th century
  • Luba Shankadi Ceremonial Figural Axe, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, 19th/early 20th century
Provenance:

Sotheby Parke Bernet & Co., London, July 12-13, 197, Lot 148

CONDITION DETAILS

Dry cracks, rust and wear to the blade and chips to the head and nose of head finial.

LOT 42
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About Condition Ratings

  • 5 Stars: Excellent - No discernable damage, flaws or imperfections
  • 4 Stars: Very Good - Minor flaws or imperfections visible only under close inspection using specialised instruments or black light
  • 3 Stars: Good - Minor flaws visible upon inspection under standard lighting
  • 2 Stars: Fair - Exhibits flaws or damage that may draw the eye under standard lighting
  • 1 Star: Poor - Flaws or damage immediately apparent under standard lighting (examples: missing components, rips, broken glass, damaged surfaces, etc.)

Note: Condition ratings and condition details are the subjective opinions of our specialists and should be used as a guide only. Waddington’s uses due care when preparing condition details, however, our staff are not professional restorers or conservators. Condition details and reports are not warranties and each lot is sold “as is” in accordance with the buyer’s terms and conditions of sale. In all cases the prospective purchaser is responsible for inspecting the property themselves prior to placing a bid.