ZULU KNOBKERRY

Collected in Tugela South Africa, site of the route of Botha’s army ending the siege of Ladysmith (Boer War). This example with silver plaque engraved TUGELA S A 1926. 28 1/2” length with slightly oval section integral ball head. Shows considerable age and use. The head with shrinkage checks and smooth wear over natural cleavage indicating decades of use. Absolutely consistent with use in the 1879 Anglo-Zulu War which would have made it a treasure, worth mounting with a silver escutcheon at the time. Fine well-worn patina.