Spear - Africa

05
days
22
hours
44
minutes
08
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Julien Gauthier
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier

A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.

Estimate  € 150 - € 200
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Description from the seller

Pair of African Spears – Harpoon & Leaf-Shaped Blade – Forged Iron

Offered here is an impressive pair of traditional African spears, consisting of a specialized harpoon-type spear with multiple barbed points and a classic leaf-shaped spear with a twisted shaft transition.

Both pieces represent fine examples of traditional African blacksmith craftsmanship, combining functional weapon design with distinctive decorative elements.

The harpoon spear features a complex, multi-barbed iron head with backward-facing hooks. This type of construction was designed to remain embedded after impact, making it particularly suitable for hunting large animals or use in aquatic environments.

The second spear displays a long, elegant, double-edged leaf-shaped blade with a pronounced central ridge. A notable feature is the twisted (torsion-forged) transition between blade and shaft, a characteristic element of traditional African forging techniques, serving both structural and decorative purposes.

Both spearheads are hand-forged from iron and mounted on wooden shafts. The craftsmanship reflects traditional forging methods carried out by skilled local smiths.

Material

Iron, wood

Country of origin

Central / East Africa (e.g. Congo, Gabon, Sudan region)


Condition

Good overall condition with authentic age-related wear.
The iron shows a natural patina and light surface corrosion.
The wooden shafts display typical signs of age such as minor cracks and wear consistent with long-term use and storage.

Dimensions

Harpoon spear: approx. 160 cm
Leaf-shaped spear: approx. 185 cm

Additional information

These objects are highly decorative and collectible ethnographic pieces, suitable for display and collections of African tribal art or historical weapons.

Pair of African Spears – Harpoon & Leaf-Shaped Blade – Forged Iron

Offered here is an impressive pair of traditional African spears, consisting of a specialized harpoon-type spear with multiple barbed points and a classic leaf-shaped spear with a twisted shaft transition.

Both pieces represent fine examples of traditional African blacksmith craftsmanship, combining functional weapon design with distinctive decorative elements.

The harpoon spear features a complex, multi-barbed iron head with backward-facing hooks. This type of construction was designed to remain embedded after impact, making it particularly suitable for hunting large animals or use in aquatic environments.

The second spear displays a long, elegant, double-edged leaf-shaped blade with a pronounced central ridge. A notable feature is the twisted (torsion-forged) transition between blade and shaft, a characteristic element of traditional African forging techniques, serving both structural and decorative purposes.

Both spearheads are hand-forged from iron and mounted on wooden shafts. The craftsmanship reflects traditional forging methods carried out by skilled local smiths.

Material

Iron, wood

Country of origin

Central / East Africa (e.g. Congo, Gabon, Sudan region)


Condition

Good overall condition with authentic age-related wear.
The iron shows a natural patina and light surface corrosion.
The wooden shafts display typical signs of age such as minor cracks and wear consistent with long-term use and storage.

Dimensions

Harpoon spear: approx. 160 cm
Leaf-shaped spear: approx. 185 cm

Additional information

These objects are highly decorative and collectible ethnographic pieces, suitable for display and collections of African tribal art or historical weapons.

Details

Era
1900-2000
Country of origin
Africa
Material
Steel, Wood
Condition
Good
Overall Length
185 cm
GermanyVerified
188
Objects sold
100%
protop

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: Decorative and Martial Arts Use Only This item is offered for auction with the understanding that it is intended exclusively for decorative purposes or martial arts practice. By participating in this auction, you agree to: Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies. Ensure that your use of this item is consistent with the stated purposes. Please note that this item has not been inspected by Catawiki for safety or functionality. Catawiki does not condone illegal activities and is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this item.

Disclaimer: Decorative and Martial Arts Use Only This item is offered for auction with the understanding that it is intended exclusively for decorative purposes or martial arts practice. By participating in this auction, you agree to: Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies. Ensure that your use of this item is consistent with the stated purposes. Please note that this item has not been inspected by Catawiki for safety or functionality. Catawiki does not condone illegal activities and is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this item.

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