TWO AFRICAN AXES for comment

katana · 4th December 2008, 09:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kahnjar1

The blade is obviously a recycled something??? as it is clearly marked W. MARPLES & SONS HIBERNIA and a shamrock leaf.
Thanks in advance.
Regards Stuart

Hi Stuart,
it originally was a 'herb chopper' I actually bought an old 'chopper' to see if the blade would be ideal as an axehead (will post pics later.....camera battery dead

). I am assuming that 'unfinished' herb cutters ie the blade and shaft were traded with the local Zulu population. However, I cannot find any references to support this.

Kind Regards David

katana · 5th December 2008, 02:37 PM

Hi Stuart,
here are he pictures of the 'herb chopper' believed to be late victorian...early Edwardian.... Bearing in mind the Zulu's relied on 'outside' blacksmiths, these blades would be ideal for the 'iconic' Zulu (Shona) axe. I am sure that some axes have been 'fraudulently' manufactured with this type of chopper, but research suggests that a great number are genuine. I believe that the quality of the 'wirework' and general patination are the best guide to authenticity.

Regards David

5th December 2008, 02:37 PM	#2
katana Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Kent Posts: 2,658	Hi Stuart, here are he pictures of the 'herb chopper' believed to be late victorian...early Edwardian.... Bearing in mind the Zulu's relied on 'outside' blacksmiths, these blades would be ideal for the 'iconic' Zulu (Shona) axe. I am sure that some axes have been 'fraudulently' manufactured with this type of chopper, but research suggests that a great number are genuine. I believe that the quality of the 'wirework' and general patination are the best guide to authenticity. Regards David Attached Images