Rare 19th Century Zulu Executioner’s Knobkerrie – Mfecane III
$3,570.00
Time Period: 19th Century
Origin: Zulu, South Africa
Materials: Dark hardwood with studs
Provenance: UK, Market.
Certificates / Declarations: Certificate of Authenticity
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Description
Zulu Knobkerries
Knobkerries were an indispensable weapon of war both in Africa and abroad. In Africa, the weapon found particular use among Nguni peoples. Among the Zulu people, they are known as iwisa. The iwisa was not typically used in combat – though they were occasionally used as thrown weapons in place of the throwing spear or isijula. Instead, the Zulu used iwisa as swagger sticks, ceremonial objects, or even as snuff containers. In the 20th century, the Zulu nationalist movement Inkatha viewed iwisa as traditional weapons and lobbied for the right to carry such weapons in public- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knobkerrie
Description
This knobkerrie type is extremely rare. They were typically was used for execution. It has earned a code name Starstruck Mfecane II here at Hills Collectibles, take a look at its cousins Mfecane I and Mfecane II. The star studs says it all: rare, one of a kind. The globular head consists of several studs. This type of knobkerrie was typically carried by high status Zulu warriors. Scratches, dents to some studs consistent to its age and use. A Must Have for a serious collector.
Valuation
Genuine, 19th-century prestige knobkerries like this have become highly sort after artifacts. African ethnographic tribal artwork value is typically based on some of the following criteria with the help of an expert:
- Condition, (damages, repairs)
- Authenticity and Provenance, (history of ownership)
- Quality, (the type of material used, preservation, skill, aesthetics/beauty)
- Uniqueness (the only one of its kind), rarity (occurs only in few locations) affect value.
Finally, to fully appreciate ethnographic tribal art, one has to have a sound understanding of African cultural history. Feel free to ask any questions here
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