Good early example of late 19th-early 20 century. 32 5/8” length with well forged medially ridged blade of form similar to the long lion spears but without the basal expansion. Blind stitched leather-covered grip over ribbed wood core. Good untouched example with quality and workmanship indicative of this early period. Prior to European colonization in the early 20th century, the Maasai dominated the Great Rift Valley. Maasai warriors were much feared and preyed on the Dinka, Kikuyu, and their other neighbors, stealing cattle and occasionally settling feuds. Maasai swords from this early period are rarely encountered. The vast majority of this form date to the Mau Mau Uprising of 1952-60 and are of Kikuyu origin.
