****This item was on display May 8 - June 29, 2012 : "Indigenous Peoples and Food Sovereignty" An exhibition in recognition of Indigenous Peoples on the occasion of the Eleventh Session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues Visitor's Lobby, General Assembly Building, UN Headquarters, NYC. ****
The spear has long been the weapon of choice of the Maasai. It is used to defend cattle, community and the warrior himself against wild animals and invaders. Constructed from wood and iron, it is deemed to be the single most valued personal possession after livestock. There are countless romanticized tales that center around these tall, imposing Maasai giants, fighting courageously against man and beast. They are the mighty lion hunters of Africa, brave of heart and the able assassins of any human attacker. In fact, it is the dream of every Maasai warrior to kill an enemy by dispatching a deadly spear wound to the front torso. In doing so he would gain the highest honor from his kinsmen. The lengthened 64 inch long lion hunting spear offered here is a classic Maasai favorite. The 33 inch long heavy iron spear head was designed specially to bring down lions. The weapon has a three piece configuration. The spear head and metal end are attached by hardened wax and socketing to the opposite ends of the third section, the wooden grip. The entire piece was hand crafted in Africa. This long selection is well balanced and exhibits expert metal working technique. This spear is really beautiful! A Maasai saying: "If, when the sun rises, the heavens are red, the Masai say it will rain; and if, when the sun sets the sky is the color of blood, they say that there are some warriors out raiding who have been successful."
The spears offered for sale now are the exact type of spears that was on exhibit. The exhibit spear has been sold.
Please click photo for enlargement!
Sold out. More will arrive 5/2016
Dimensions: 64 inches tall. The spearhead is 33 inches long.
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