Description:

Southern Africa, South Africa, Zulu culture, ca. early 20th century CE. A staff known as a knobkerrie, hand-carved from wood and wrapped in coiled brass wires, with a brass cap on the tip. A rounded finial also covered with these interlacing wires crowns the top. This is not a long staff, and functioned more as an oversized scepter that was styled after war clubs, and likely used as a status symbol or ceremonial emblem. While wood knobkerries with large globular heads were used for hunting and combat, finely embellished examples like this one were treasured ceremonial items, symbolizing leadership and proudly displayed in the home. Size: 35" L x 1.5" W (88.9 cm x 3.8 cm).

Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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#195987

  • Condition: Wires are poking out and are sharp, handle with care. Losses to some wire wrap near the finial end. Dark patina and oxidation to metal.

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August 22, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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