Ethnographic Arms & Armour - View Single Post - Another 3 old African spears ...not certain as to origins

colin henshaw · 14th July 2009, 05:39 AM

Hi David

Nice old spears. I can't say from where exactly, but that stepped or "ogee" section blade often means from Zimbabwe (Mashona) or thereabouts, as does the twist of iron to the butt. The concept of a nail through the socket is sometimes seen in spears from Central Africa.

Usually socketed blades (as opposed to tanged) are from north of the Zambezi, so perhaps they are from the Zambia/Congo region...

Regards
Colin

14th July 2009, 05:39 AM	#2
colin henshaw Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 1,429	Hi David Nice old spears. I can't say from where exactly, but that stepped or "ogee" section blade often means from Zimbabwe (Mashona) or thereabouts, as does the twist of iron to the butt. The concept of a nail through the socket is sometimes seen in spears from Central Africa. Usually socketed blades (as opposed to tanged) are from north of the Zambezi, so perhaps they are from the Zambia/Congo region... Regards Colin