LARGE-BLADED 19th CENTURY ZULU STABBING SPEAR, IKLWA

A very typical 19th century Zulu stabbing spear, iklwa, with long, broad blade and short, stout handle. This example shows signs of considerable age; there is light rust-pitting on the blade, and the tip is slightly blunted. There is an old crack where the blade is mounted into the haft which has split the (cane) binding - this could perhaps be impact damage. The piece remains firm and secure, however, and is full of character. Blade is 14 ins long and 2 ins wide; overall length is 47 ins.