This Zulu Isijula was a Zulu War bring back. After the punitive attack on the Zulu capitol of Ulundi in 1879, many such trophies were collected by the troops and brought back to the UK as souvenirs.
This isijula is something a little special. It differs from the usual Zulu isijula in that it is dateable, and was made between 1862 and 1869. The round bar that was used to forge the blade bears the name and trademark of the English company, William Marples & Sons. The three-leaf clover trademark of W. Marples & Sons was first used in 1862. William Marples retired in 1869. At some point between these dates, a Zulu warrior acquired the stock round bar from which the spearhead was then forged. This would certainly have been done prior to the Anglo-Zulu War in 1879.
The 160mm superior quality blade (not including the tang) has a flattened diamond section with raised medial ridge. The blade is in great condition with a wonderful patina.
The tang of the blade is secured firmly within the haft and a cow tail was added to strengthen the bond. The high-status cow tail is in excellent condition with a beautiful patina.
The haft has a wonderful patina and flares nicely at the end.
While the Zulu King was responsible for providing his warriors (Impis) with shields, the individual Zulu warrior was responsible for his own weaponry. Traditionally, Zulu warriors carried at least two isijula into battle along with their iklwa and an iwisa (knobkerrie/club). The first isijula would be thrown from several meters distance, the second as they closed with their enemy, distracting them for the deadly attack with their iklwa.
The use of a cow tail to reinforce the bond of the tang in the haft identifies this isijula as having been a high-status weapon. Cows were the Zulu’s wealth and were not killed without good reason. The Zulu King would often award cow tails in recognition of valour.
This Isijula has a total length of 1,365mm (136.5cm).
This is a rare, dateable example of a Zulu warrior’s throwing spear and will make a great addition to any Anglo-Zulu War collection.
