This spear comes from the Sudan or neighbouring Ethiopia and is believed to have been brought back to the UK after the Battle of Omdurman during the Mahdist uprising. The Mahdist Revolution (1881-1898) was an Islamic revolt against the Egyptian government in the Sudan. Britain became involved in support of their Egyptian allies and the uprising was ruthlessly crushed. The Battle of Omdurman, which took place on September 2, 1898 saw the superior numbers of the Mahdist forces, armed predominantly with bladed weapons, decimated by the modern firepower of the British army.
Most 19th Century Sudanese weapons in the UK today are battlefield trophies brought back by members of the British forces. Spearheads were often removed from the wooden hafts to make it easier to pack the trophy in a kit bag for return to the UK.
This spear has a large, 340mm double-edged blade. The well-forged leaf-shaped blade is decorated on both sides with two panels of chevron-like incised lines.
The long socket is thick walled and faceted. The middle of the socket is bound with decorative brass wire. This spear is in very good condition and is a well forged and robust weapon with a total length of 570mm.
