Three African spears for ID

[Martin Lubojacky]

Hi Iain,
The head of upper spear (not the shape, but the style of surface - flat section followed by a rib) shows a likeness to another Indian spear called Ballam (again from the book by Tirri). Also the "silver" ring on the third spear is not, I think, typically African as well as the style of divinding of the second spearhead.
Regards,
Martin

[Iain]

Originally Posted by Martin Lubojacky

Hi Iain,
The head of upper spear (not the shape, but the style of surface - flat section followed by a rib) shows a likeness to another Indian spear called Ballam (again from the book by Tirri). Also the "silver" ring on the third spear is not, I think, typically African as well as the style of divinding of the second spearhead.
Regards,
Martin

Hi Martin,

Thanks for the help.

Another friend has also been helping with some ideas.

1. I didn't think Indian spears had a shoe like this one? It seemed typical of African work to me?

2. This double head looks like it should in fact be from Ethiopia and a ceremonial/parade item. You can see similarity in the head shapes with Ethiopian and Somali spears - and there are other double headed spears from Ethiopia

3. This is probably Madagascar? The style is very close to other Madagascar spears.

[Martin Lubojacky]

Hi Iain,
I am just giving ideas for disposal. I have problem with scanner now, but I will try to post copies of two pictures (you will find similarities) and I do also hope it will be OK with copyright..... - This as far as Nos. 1 and 3 are concerned.
Re. double headed spear - it is true it resembles Abyssinian and Somali spearheads. But I don´t think it was designed as ceremonial. I am sure here are much more experienced and well-versed collectors here, maybe they will also join this thread
Regards,
Martin

[Pukka Bundook]

Iain,

I think you are close re. the origin of these spears.
I'm no expert, but the decoration to me appears correct for the areas you mention.

Martin,
I agree that the manner of manufacturing the first spear has similarities with some from India, but the decoration appears much more African to me.
India, diverse as it is, still retains certain types of decoration, and I don't think the above fit.

All best,
Richard.

[Iain]

Hi Martin,

I'm really grateful you are sharing your thoughts. I am no expert in spears, so I can easily be wrong.

For 3 I thought this was more or less the classic Madagascar design? I saw many spears before with this attribution - but you are right that the silver collar is very unusual.

For 1 I am very interested to see any related photos. I can find nothing in this style really in my few books. I think for copyright it will be ok - it is only for discussion and should be covered by "fair use".


Richard,

Thanks for the encouraging words. Spears are a new area for me and I am trying to learn as much as I can.

[Martin Lubojacky]

Pictures from Islamic Weapons from Maghreb to Moghul by A.C. Tirri
regards,
Martin

[zalmoxis]

First spear West African Mossi typical file work.
Second spear Ethiopian very nice rare double head feature.
Third spear from Madagascar.
Second and third from Tiri's book also spears from Madagascar...hmm you wonder about the reach of the Ottoman empire:-)