AFRICA: zappozap axe, Opitz p.382, 15" x 9 1/2 " in dimensions, with ornate wrought-iron blade connected to a club-like wooden handle clad in copper, EF, R, ex Charles Opitz Collection. Zappozap (or nzappa zap, nsapo, kilonda, kasuyu) is a traditional weapon from the upper Congo region, similar to an axe or hatchet. It was usually crafted by the Nsapo people who thrived industrially from iron and copper. The axe is forged from iron while the handle is made of wood covered in copper. Originally used as a brutal weapon in battle, Congo axes were later used more to denote rank or office than as wealth display, though there are accounts of their use as brideprice.
Estimate: USD 450 - 650