Combat Spear Iklwa
Northern Nguni (Zulu), South Africa
Forged iron; wood; iron, brass, and copper wire
Late 19th / early 20th century
The iklwa represents one of the major innovations implemented by Shaka Zulu (also known as Sigidi kaSenzangakhona Zulu) in the early 19th century. The iklwa was a new type of weapon issued to the army that accompanied a new type of combat. Replacing the light throwing spears known as isijula (commonly also called assegai) that were used for long-range combat, the iklwa was designed for close combat. This tactical change demanded a much more aggressive fighting style, which directly led to the Zulu’s swift conquer of neighboring tribes and territories.
Interestingly, the change from carrying numerous isijula javelins to just one iklwa spear was accompanied by a deliberate shift in mentality: while the isijula were expendable, the iklwa were precious. No Zulu warrior was permitted to throw his iklwa, even if death was imminent, and no warrior was permitted to return from battle without his iklwa.
Subsequent Zulu kings brought back the isijula javelins, used alongside the iklwa.
Years after the time of Shaka Zulu, pieces such as this example were decorated with intricate wirework, and reserved for chiefs as potent symbols of prestige. The narrow blade of this iklwa dates it after 1879 (Spring, African Arms and Armor, 1993).
The Northern Nguni label describes a number of groups living in the former Zulu kingdom.
This piece was decommissioned from the Old Slave Mart Museum in Charleston, South Carolina in 1988.
40.75 in :: 103.5 cm
InventoryID #13-1145
SOLD
