MAASAI VOTIVE OR PRESTIGE SPEAR

Rare example, early 20th century. Forged iron, 18 ¾” length, leaf shaped, with medial ridge flanked by forged iron segments. The butted seam conical socket with thickened edge, pattern polished over forged finish. The base with inked field collection notes: Ed. II, 151 Africa / Maasai- / Kenya. This would have been a gift or display of wealth and power by a clan head. Nb: Despite their proximity to the Arab slave trade, the Maasai did not participate in it. Nor were they predated upon to supply slaves.