Eng’erempe (spear)
Datelate 1800s-early 1900s
Mediumiron and wood
Dimensions223.7 cm (88 1/16 in.), 4 lb, 2 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.249
DescriptionExceptionally long, slender head with offset midribs; round cross-section butt-spike.Label TextMaasai men belong to age groups that determine their status, each age group traditionally being set apart by a distinctive style of weapons. The shape and length of the spearhead and butt-spike on Maasai spears identified the owner’s age group. This spear would have been carried by a moran, or junior warrior. This type of spear is recognizable by its long narrow blade and its butt-spike, which balances the weight of the blade. One of its most important traditional uses was for lion hunting, an activity that won honor for a moran and his family.ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on April 27, 1930 from Fenton & Sons, Ltd., London, England, their no. E2406AL. Given to the Museum on July 1, 1954. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view
possibly 500s-late 1000s