A nice Zulu or Shona Ax ?

[drac2k]

I recently picked up this ax which I believe to be either Zulu or Shona, based on the wire work; I'm leaning towards Zulu because of the tack work.
The ax belonged to the estate of Edward Frey, who was a collector and researcher of Oriental Arms. The addition of the leather loop is interesting as I believe it was influenced by European contact, so I am guessing late 20th Century.
As shown the ax has a broken piece on the head, but everything is firm, so as the previous owner I think I will leave it as is.

[Kmaddock]

Hi
V nice item,
I would have taught it was earlier than late 20th century though
Was this a typo.
What would have gone on the opposing side to the blade where the spike protrudes.
I too would leave as is, a lovely un touched item with great wire work
Regards
Ken

[drac2k]

Thanks, Ken. I was assuming 20th century because of the belt loop, which I don't believe is a traditional Zulu feature. I don't think anything was on the other end, except the wood; I think the metal shaft of the blade would have protruded out of the side.

[thinreadline]

the axe head itself does not look typically Zulu to me although the wirework of course does. The blade of the axe looks as if it has come from a European 18th / 19th century half moon food / herb chopper .

[drac2k]

I agree, thanks for the input.

[thinreadline]

Hi
V nice item,
I would have taught it was earlier than late 20th century though
Was this a typo.
What would have gone on the opposing side to the blade where the spike protrudes.
I too would leave as is, a lovely un touched item with great wire work
Regards
Ken


I think that the 'spike' is simply the tang end of this vegetable chopper blade which has been repurposed as an axe head after the wooden handle was removed.