Nice little spear/ javelin. Ethiopian/Somali??

Andy Stevens · 11th December 2007, 04:53 PM

My old mate Monkey is seen here modeling a rather odd little spear that I recently picked up. The dinky head, is well made and measures 17cm, it being 2cm at its fullest. The shaft (81cm long) swells at the belly, then tapers down to a rounded end. I've never seen anything like this before-that dosn't mean much!

- so I'm rather curious. Thanks

katana · 12th December 2007, 11:25 PM

Hi,
looks African, the metal winding around the shaft seems to suggest so. Seems to be designed as a 'thrower'. The 'head' would be a little light but, the wooden shaft 'swelling' at the business end would create better balance. The tapering metal shaft is nicely done, if it is forged. Probably a hunting spear but I have little idea whereabouts in Africa or Tribe where this spear could have originated, sorry.

Your monkey friend seems alittle upset that he's run out of beer....not a good idea when he's so well 'armed'

Regards David

Andy Stevens · 13th December 2007, 11:34 AM

Hello David, Yes I also think this some sort of throwing spear, my first thoughts were perhaps these were carried in multiples, rather like jarids. Its very well put together, the blade is sharp, so i guess has had an active life. Whatever it be, it cost very little and fits into the stairwell a treat. Many thanks for the wisdom on this odd little fellow. B.T.W. Monkey is a Vodka man (Chimp!!)

11th December 2007, 04:53 PM	#1
Andy Stevens Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: London Posts: 155	Nice little spear/ javelin. Ethiopian/Somali?? My old mate Monkey is seen here modeling a rather odd little spear that I recently picked up. The dinky head, is well made and measures 17cm, it being 2cm at its fullest. The shaft (81cm long) swells at the belly, then tapers down to a rounded end. I've never seen anything like this before-that dosn't mean much! - so I'm rather curious. Thanks Attached Images

12th December 2007, 11:25 PM	#2
katana Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Kent Posts: 2,653	Hi, looks African, the metal winding around the shaft seems to suggest so. Seems to be designed as a 'thrower'. The 'head' would be a little light but, the wooden shaft 'swelling' at the business end would create better balance. The tapering metal shaft is nicely done, if it is forged. Probably a hunting spear but I have little idea whereabouts in Africa or Tribe where this spear could have originated, sorry. Your monkey friend seems alittle upset that he's run out of beer....not a good idea when he's so well 'armed' Regards David

13th December 2007, 11:34 AM	#3
Andy Stevens Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: London Posts: 155	Hello David, Yes I also think this some sort of throwing spear, my first thoughts were perhaps these were carried in multiples, rather like jarids. Its very well put together, the blade is sharp, so i guess has had an active life. Whatever it be, it cost very little and fits into the stairwell a treat. Many thanks for the wisdom on this odd little fellow. B.T.W. Monkey is a Vodka man (Chimp!!)