This impressive Zulu Iklwa was probably made in the early 20th Century. Many Zulus were employed as native police, prison and security guards and guides during and after the Anglo-Boer War and onwards through both World Wars. It is hard to accurately age iklwa but my gut feeling is that this one postdates the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879.
The 476mm blade has a slight medial ridge. The blade is 48mm at its widest and is in good condition with areas of dark tarnish that add to its character.
The blade is secured firmly within the haft and woven copper wire strengthens the bond. The woven wire is in good condition. The copper wire does not have the same patina that I have seen on iklwa I know to be from the AZW. The wire could have been cleaned in the past by an overzealous collector, but the patina of the wire is my main reason for dating the iklwa to the early 20th Century.
The 880mm haft has a wonderful patina and flares nicely at the end. The haft is quite long for a Zulu War period iklwa, and is another reason for my belief in the spear dating to after the AZW.
This is a very impressive Iklwa with a large blade and a total length of 1,356mm (53 and 3/8 inches). It will make a great addition to any collection.
