African (Sahel ?) spear for I.D.
 

This recent acquisition is a rather unusual spear - does anyone recognise it ? Those spiral elements at the base of the blade, also the indentations to either side of the blade spine, are distinctive. Its quite sturdy and heavy, feels as if it was made for using, rather than just for parade or ceremony.

Comments, references etc are welcome, thanks in advance.

African (Sahel ?) spear for I.D.
 

Hello Colin,
nice spear :) I think it's coming from the West Africa (Liberia or Ivory Coast), I have one little bit similar to yours described as Dan or neighbours (lenghth 115cm). What's a size of yours?
Also similar you can find here:
http://www.africanarms.com/all-albums/!/oa/6644091/

What Greg said. ;) Very nice example, congrats!

Thanks to Greg and Iain for their comments. Length of my example is approx. 126cm. Nice website.

The iron spiral elements are unusual...has anyone seen these elsewhere ? The only others I can find are as on this dagger, described as from Northern Cameroon, and published in the book "panga na visu" by Zirngible & Kubetz 2009. I wonder if the spirals have any significance beyond decoration ?

Regards.