ZULU INDUNA'S STAFF

Rare variation of the 1879 Anglo Zulu War period. Indunas were the representatives of the chief at the village level, with absolute authority, chosen from the ranks of esteemed warriors. Most induna staffs served as walking sticks while this and others we have offered are combination hand weapons and symbols of office. This example is 34” length with a knob terminal with an additional swelled striking segment below and cylindrical to the butt. It is wrapped in fine Zulu wirework in contrasting copper and brass bands, with a particularly fine wrap to the knob. Middle segment and below the knob showing evidence or original wire wrap removed in its working life. The mid-segment with soft woven plant fiber wrap hand grip. All evidence of the life of this staff as the owner grew older and accommodated his decreased physical abilities. These staffs our usually of polished wood like the clubs and spears. This is the only example encased in intricate wire wrap which is far mor labor intensive and indicative of an induna of considerable stature.