Some period photos of African 'knights'

[Martin Lubojacky]

Iain, thank you and Colin for sharing this magnificent old photos. When I came to my office a while ago, I wanted to work (at least a little). The only "mistake" was I switched on vikingsword forum....

Do you think the photo of Dikwa rider with a long and thick lance may somewat clear up the origin of a steel spear-end piece, which I bought in Maroua 3 years ago ?? It is 115 cms long with a diameter at the outset around 4 cms - see the photo. (btw: That time it was possible to go by car from Maiduguri to Maroua - through Bama, which is a little bit more south from Dikwa - now it is warmly not recommended from the security reasons, so another peace of the Earth became unaccessible from this reasons...)

Concerning the Dikwa cavalry mock charge, I think it is a scene from the local Durbar festival, as the people standing infront of the riders are (dancing) women. (Now there is Durbar time again, I think it will e.g. take place in Kano from November 5 to 6)
Best regards
Martin