ZULU KILLING CLUB

Anglo-Zulu War of 1885. Knobkerry form, 28” length, hand carved, the surface with scraped (not sanded or polished) finish. Tapered haft with flared butt. Large egg-shaped head bi-colored from the use of the sapwood/heart wood interface. The head offset on banded neck. Fine patina. These were executioners clubs used after a battle to dispatch some wounded and all undesirables such as women and children not suitable for assimilation into the Zulu culture. Warriors who fought bravely were dispatched with the spear. Used also to enforce obedience in the training ranks where, occasionally, an underperforming trainee would be struck dead to instill fear and discipline in his fellows.