id:			97090
accession number:	1916.739
share license status:	Copyrighted
url:			https://clevelandart.org/art/1916.739
updated:		2023-03-03 07:01:17.753000

Ceremonial Axe, before 1916. Africa, Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Songye, 20th century. Iron, wood, and copper; overall: 26.7 cm (10 1/2 in.); handle: 43.2 cm (17 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of J. H. Wade 1916.739

title:				Ceremonial Axe
title in original language:	
series:				
series in original language:	
creation date:			before 1916
creation date earliest:		1910
creation date latest:		1916
current location:		
creditline:			Gift of J. H. Wade
copyright:			

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culture:	Africa, Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Songye, 20th century
technique:	iron, wood, and copper
department:	African Art
collection:	African Art
type:		Arms and Armor
find spot:	
catalogue raisonne: 

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CREATORS

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measurements: Overall: 26.7 cm (10 1/2 in.); Handle: 43.2 cm (17 in.)
state of the work:	
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support materials:


inscriptions:

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LEGACY EXHIBITIONS

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PROVENANCE

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fun fact:


digital description:


wall description:
Songye artists working in various metals produced a variety of ornamental objects, like this one used as an insignia of high office. Each column supporting the blade was decorated with a face, then forged, and twisted individually before being welded in place to create an intricate openwork design. The wooden handle is completely covered in copper, a precious metal reserved for rulers.
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