Origin: AFRICA / Dimensions: 65 cm

The Maasai hunting spear is a traditional weapon used by the Maasai people, an ethnic group that inhabits mainly Kenya and Tanzania. This spear is an important symbol of Maasai culture and is used both as a hunting tool and as part of tribal ceremonies and traditions.

Main features of the Maasai hunting spear:

Materials: The spearhead is generally made of iron or steel, often assembled using traditional artisanal techniques. The shaft is made of sturdy wood, such as mopane or other hard, lightweight trees, chosen to withstand use and facilitate handling.
Design: The spear has a long shaft, usually between 0.5 and 2.5 meters long, with a sharp, often double-edged tip, designed to effectively penetrate prey. The tip can be decorated with engravings or painted, and often features metal armor for added strength.
Function: It is primarily used for hunting small and large animals, such as zebras, gazelles, and other ungulates, but also as a defensive weapon or during coming-of-age ceremonies.
Symbolism: Beyond its practical function, the Maasai spear represents the courage, honor, and maturity of Maasai men. During initiation ceremonies, young Maasai men are often gifted with spears as a symbol of their passage into adulthood.
In short, the Maasai hunting spear is an example of art and functionality, closely linked to the culture and traditions of this nomadic and warrior people.