An 1879-period umbhumbhulozu regimental war-shield with two period amawisa (knobkerries) wired to the back to form a trophy display. Shields of this pattern are widely associated with the Zulu regiments incorporated into the uThulwana ibutho (the iNdlondlo and iNdluywenge); all three regiments took part in the battle of Rorke's Drift. They were quartered at the royal homestead at oNdini (Ulundi) which was heavily looted by British troops after the battle of Ulundi on 4 July 1879 - a number of shields with this pattern have survived but it is unusual to find them mounted with other Zulu weapons to form a wall-trophy.
In this case two amawisa (knobkerries) have been wired to the back but the wiring has not damaged the integrity of the individual pieces. Although the piece's appearance is entirely commensurate with it's age, it is in very good condition with no significant hair loss and the shield retaining the original stick. Shield is 37 x 21 inches, shield-stick is 48 inches. A very striking example of 1879-period Zulu weapons - and the uses to which British troops who 'souvenired' them turned them.
