Spear
Culture
Maasai people, Eastern African
Datelate 1800s
Mediumiron and wood
Dimensions196.5 cm (77 3/8 in.)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Frank E. Heywood
Object number1917.10.1
DescriptionLarge, leaf-shaped blade with characteristically Maasai offset midribs on both sides; short wooden shaft, long butt-spike of square cross-section.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
