This rare Zulu iwisa dates to the late 19th Century and was probably a Zulu War battlefield trophy brought to the UK by a returning British soldier. The iwisa was a very important weapon to the Zulu, second only to the iklwa. Traditionally a Zulu warrior carried an iklwa (stabbing spear), iwisa (club) and two or more isijula (throwing spears).
This iwisa is of a rare type, with slightly concave areas on the top and bottom, reportedly for taking snuff. The taking of snuff was very popular amongst the Zulu, the snuff containing botanical narcotics such as cannabis. Reputedly, the small dish-like surface on the head of the iwisa was for offering snuff and the similar area at the bottom of the head was for personal use. Snuff was regularly taken prior to battle.
The large head has a diameter of 90mm and a depth of 76mm with a 40mm dished section on top and a 35mm dished area on the bottom. The striking face of the head has some chipping and loss. This is of the period (the patina is the same as the rest of the club head) and indicates use.
The shaft of the club is bound at the bottom with woven copper and iron wire. One small section of the wire is missing. The rest of the wire is intact and tight.
The iwisa has a total length of 660mm.
This rare, Anglo-Zulu War knobkerrie will enhance any collection.
