Early 20th century - Good condition

This old club, is made in very hard wood and is for 100% covered with very fine brass and copper wire.
This is very uncommon. Wirecovering was done to personalise and for strengthening. At the extremity there is a loop in the same wire for suspension. The very thin wires are not simply turned around the wood but are woven in different decorative motifs. See the photos for the lovely details.
During the reign of Shaka, large headed clubs were used for execution by a blow. (only for court people of high rank) At the end of the 19th century the British decreted that the knobs of sticks had to be small enough to fit into the owner's mouth. I think that this knobkerrie was used at ceremonial dances.(see Zulu Treasures, page 86)
Total length 68 cm. The head measures 90 x 90 mm. Weight 682 grams.
The photos 13 and 14 show knobkerries that are partly covered by wire; only on the head: the Kevin Conru Collection,see The Art of Southeast Africa, page 62 (photo 13) and the Old Durban Museum Collection, see Zulu Treasures, page 86 (photo 14)
Shipping with Track & Trace number.