Ikongo (ceremonial wooden axe)
The finely carved handle and elongated, ridged blade of this ikongo were wielded by a member of the Itoci political society. Ikongo were among an array of regalia conferred to Itoci leaders upon their initiation into this powerful governing body. Performing at an array of public and private events, members donned elaborate ensembles that included a mpondo wrapper secured around the hips with a braided belt, metal bracelets, beaded necklaces, and a plaited, raffia-fiber hat distinguished by a cylindrical extension from its summit. Essential attributes of the dance included a wooden mbej’elukfuka knife worn tucked into the wrapper, and the ikongo axe held in the hand. Such instruments allude to the fortitude of an Itoci member who can “cut the manioc root himself,” a metaphor for self-sufficiency and wisdom (Cornet, 10).
Jenny Peruski, Assistant Curator for the Arts of Africa, 2025
Jenny Peruski, Assistant Curator for the Arts of Africa, 2025
Artwork Details
- Title: Ikongo (ceremonial wooden axe)
- Artist: Dengese artist
- Date: 19th–first half of 20th century
- Geography: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sankuru River region
- Culture: Dengese peoples
- Medium: Wood
- Dimensions: H. 26 in. × W. 6 in. × D. 1 3/4 in. (66 × 15.2 × 4.4 cm)
- Classification: Wood-Sculpture
- Credit Line: The Michael C. Rockefeller Memorial Collection, Purchase, Nelson A. Rockefeller Gift, 1971
- Object Number: 1978.412.634
- Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing
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