Zulu swords are something of an enigma; they did not form part of the Zulu armoury prior to the Anglo-Zulu War, but a number of examples exist which date from the post-war period through to the early 20th century; the most popular opinion is that these were inspired by Zulu contact with British swords in 1879. Most, like this example, were essentially stabbing spear blades with a crudely cast handle and guard; this is a large, impressive example measuring 31 inches from end to end. There is some rust damage to the edge indicative of it being a very early example. A striking piece.
