An Impressive Zulu Iklwa

A very impressive example of a Zulu iklwa or short stabbing spear. The massive spearhead has been very well forged, and that together with the deep patina signs and old pitting on the blade all suggest that this is a good 19th century blade.
 
The shaft has been rubbed with what appears to be black shoe polish, which was commonly done in poorer Southern African communities to weatherproof tool handles and provide a durable finish. A section of plastic has been used to cover the wrapping on the shaft instead of the traditional piece of hide from a cow's tail. Because of Apartheid era legislation, spears like this continued to be used by African soldiers, security guards, and night watchmen well into the 20th century,  and I suspect that one was still being used in that capacity until fairly recently. This particular example is exceptionally well-balanced and fast in the hand. A very impressive weapon to hold.
 
Spearhead length: 35cm
Overall length: 84cm
Spearhead is probably 19th century, the shaft a later replacement.