Unusual club for I.D.

[colin henshaw]

Hi

This is a recent acquisition, however I am not exactly sure where the club is from, could it be of Arab origin ? Length is approx. 28 inches.

Assistance regarding identification and/or comments are welcome.

[VANDOO]

A INTERESTING CLUB (DEFINITELY NOT A FOOD POUNDER UNLESS YOU ARE A CANNIBAL :D ) MOST LIKELY AFRICA AND AS YOU MENTION POSSIBLY ARABIC IN ORIGIN. THE METAL BANDS COULD HAVE BEEN INSPIRED BY THE METAL BANDS USED TO HOLD THE BARREL TO THE STOCK ON THE OLD ARABIC GUNS. IT IS INTERESTING HOW THE MAKER MADE MANY SMALL DENTS IN THE METAL TO HELP SECURE THE BANDS AND KEEP THEM FROM SLIPPING OR TURNING. THE PLACE TO TIE A STRAP ON THE LAST BAND IS ALSO UNUSUAL. NOT A THROWING CLUB BUT A COSH FOR STRIKING SLAVES OR PERHAPS MAKEING ONES WAY THRU CROWDS. THE TACKS IN THE CLUBS HEAD ARE OFTEN SEEN ON AFRICAN WEAPONS. ARE THE METAL BANDS MAGNETIC?.

[colin henshaw]

Thanks to VANDOO for your input on this unusual club. I don't think the metal bands are magnetic.

Recently came across this illustration of a traditional coffee box "mubarrad" in the book "Traditional Crafts of Saudi Arabia" by John Topham. The construction and materials used seem quite similar to those on my club.... what do you think ?

[katana]

Hi Colin,
the dot punched bands on your club remind me of the same type of bands found on Flyssa scabbards.

Regards David

[colin henshaw]

Hi David

Yes, good point about the Flyssa scabbards...Algeria ?