E1473: Wooden Maasai Knobkerrie

Ethnographic

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Identifier:

E1473

Classification Category:

5:Tools & Equipment for Science and Technology ➞ Armament ➞ Bludgeon

Marks/Labels:

None

Materials:

botanical ➔ wood

Dimensions:

Provenance of Object:

This object was donated by Mark Heffron, 5/9/2018.

Use/Function:

As a walking stick or to kill animals.

Source Locality:

Northern Tanzania

Acquisition Date:

1967

Description:

A short wooden stick with knobbed head, traditionally used as a weapon by indigenous people in Eastern and Southern Africa. It can be used to kill predator's or even small animals. It can also be thrown to deliver a similar effect, but it can also be used as a walking stick. The knobkerrie can also have various significance to the person who holds as it can be used to display wealth or stature. The shaft can typically range between 2 and 4 feet long. Usually it is given to males to carry from puberty into adulthood.

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