Spear
Culture
Maasai people, Eastern African
Datelate 1800s
Mediumiron, wood
Dimensions188.3 cm (74 1/8 in.)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Frank E. Heywood
Object number1917.10.4
DescriptionLarge, leaf-shaped blade with symmetrical midribs on both sides; wooden shaft, butt-spike of square cross-section. Like 1917.10.1, but with longer shaft and shorter butt-spike.Label TextThe Maasai, whose territory lies in Kenya and Tanzania, live chiefly by herding cattle. Since their herds are sometimes attacked by lions – and historically by raiders from neighboring peoples – the Maasai have traditionally carried weapons when they are watching over their animals. Lion hunting was once considered an essential rite of passage into manhood, but with declining lion populations, the Maasai have been cultivating sporting events as an alternative.
On View
Not on view
late 1800s-early 1900s
