CONGOLESE SLAVER’S ARROW

19^th century, from the Baptist Missionary Society. 32” length with hardwood shaft and fine offset section leaf-shaped iron point secured with plant fiber lash. Self-nock above a skillfully carved raised band for enhanced purchase. That feature demonstrates that the shaft was carved to size and shape and not simply a tree shoot. Further evidence is that the shaft is tapered through its length, swelling below the socket. short black fletches. Light age encrustation.