Gun Collectors Dream Auction #86 Collector Auction
Lot 1520:
Description
This single East African spear is of the type traditionally carried by Maasai moran warriors, commonly referred to as a lion spear. The weapon is constructed in three distinct sections. The spearhead features a long, leaf-shaped wrought iron blade with a prominent medial rib and a tapered integral socket. The central shaft is made of polished hardwood and is decorated with hand-incised geometric and herringbone patterns. A weathered remnant of animal hide or sinew wrapping is present near the junction of the blade socket and the wooden grip. The base of the spear consists of a long, square-sectioned iron butt-spike, which serves to balance the weight of the head and allows the spear to be driven into the ground. The item is accompanied by a handwritten paper inventory tag transcribed as BL 1786 African Spear & Bow + arrow set.
Dimensions: 66″ Long
Condition report:
The spear is in aged, stable condition. The iron components, including the head and the butt-spike, exhibit a heavy dark oxidized patina with visible surface rust, pitting, and corrosion consistent with authentic field use. The wooden shaft shows a smooth, darkened patina from handling with minor surface scuffs. The animal hide wrapping is dried, brittle, and partially detached.
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