Spear
Datelate 1800s
Mediumiron, wood, cord and iron wire
Dimensions168 cm (66 1/8 in.), 3 lb, 5 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.282
DescriptionIron barbed double edged thrusting blade of flattened lozenge section edges slightly convex & recurving to barbs below, both faces medially decorated with blackened chased lines & diagonal hatching. Base of blade drawn out into tang. Conical iron ferrule wrapped with cordage. Reeded short wooden staff spirally wrapped at ends with flat iron wire. Butt fitted with very long butt spike of octagonal section & tapering to point.Label TextIn much of Africa, the spear was the main weapon for battle, usually in conjunction with a shield. Different styles of heads, butt-caps, and wrapping on the shaft help identify the spear’s regional origin, and the owner's cultural affiliations. The symbolic importance of spears and shields in African cultures is reflected in their appearance on the flags of Kenya and Eswatini (Swaziland).ProvenancePurchased by Museum on May 9, 1945 from James Graham & Sons, Inc. (NYC) Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
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