Zulu Iklwa Stabbing Spear with a Formidable Blade

Time Period: 19th – early 20th Century
Origin: Zulu People, South Africa
Materials: Forged iron blade, hardwood shaft, palm fiber binding
Measurements: Total ~46.5″ (118 cm) | Blade ~21″ (53 cm) long × 2″ (5 cm) wide
Provenance: Private collection, UK
Inscription: “Schnoodles and Pigdog” (owner marks)
Condition: Excellent original condition; minor age-related tarnish and faint scratches only

Description:
Zulu Iklwa Stabbing Spear – Shaka’s Close-Combat Masterpiece
Designed by the legendary King Shaka Zulu (c. 1787–1828), the iklwa replaced traditional throwing spears with a short, heavy stabbing blade that forced warriors to fight shield-to-shield. Its name echoes the wet “iklwa” suction sound made when pulled from a fallen enemy.
This exact pattern dominated the Anglo-Zulu War (1879), helping Zulu impis annihilate a British column at Isandlwana and hold Rorke’s Drift against overwhelming odds.

About This Spear:
Museum-grade Zulu iklwa from a private UK collection.

Blade: Broad forged-iron leaf shape, 21″ long × 2″ at widest; pronounced medial ridge; excellent edge with only light tarnish and micro-scratches.
Shaft: Dense pale hardwood, ~25.5″ grip section; tight palm-fiber binding perfectly preserved
Inscription: Quirky owner marks “Schnoodles and Pigdog” lightly incised near binding – adds unique provenance without detracting.
Overall:Outstanding condition.

Battle-ready examples in this state are exceptionally scarce.

The iklwa spear played a pivotal role in Zulu military history. At the Battle of Isandlwana, Zulu forces equipped with short stabbing spears and cowhide shields overwhelmed a British column in a decisive engagement that reshaped perceptions of African warfare.

Perfect For:
Serious African ethnographica collectors
Anglo-Zulu War displays
High-end interior decor
Film & reenactment