The iklwa, sometimes spelled assegai or ixwa, was a short stabbing spear central to Zulu warfare under the military reforms of Shaka Zulu in the early 19th century. Although often referred to as a spear, its unique combination of a long, broad blade and short shaft makes it functionally closer to a sword-spear hybrid. Designed for close-quarters combat, the iklwa played a crucial role in transforming Zulu tactics and identity during a pivotal period of southern African history.
Specification
The iklwa typically features a blade of 25 to 50 centimetres in length, forged from iron and ground to a sharp point with widened edges for cutting. The shaft is short, usually between 50 and 70 centimetres, made from hardwood and wrapped in hide or sinew for grip. The result is a weapon that allows for powerful thrusting motions with one hand, suitable for close melee engagements. Its total length makes it compact compared to longer spears or polearms, granting greater manoeuvrability in formation fighting.
History and Evolution
Before the emergence of the iklwa, southern African warriors generally fought with longer throwing spears (also called assegais) and minimal defensive coordination. Shaka Zulu’s military reforms in the early 1800s replaced these methods with a more disciplined and aggressive close-combat style. Central to this shift was the adoption of the iklwa. It was not meant for throwing but for stabbing in tight ranks, making it ideal for the bull-horn formation Shaka popularised.
Its introduction coincided with a period of immense upheaval and state formation in the region, known as the Mfecane. The iklwa became both a symbol and tool of Zulu military success, enabling a relatively small but disciplined force to defeat and absorb rival groups across southern Africa.
Advantages and Disadvantages
One of the main advantages of the iklwa lies in its design for thrusting. The short haft allows a warrior to use a shield in the off-hand and deliver repeated stabs with the dominant hand. This made it deadly in close formations, where reach was less important than speed, control, and cohesion.
However, the iklwa was poorly suited to open or irregular terrain where formations could break down. Its limited range made it ineffective against cavalry or missile troops. It also required a well-trained and tightly coordinated fighting force, as the reliance on formation tactics left individuals vulnerable if isolated.
Similar Weapons
The iklwa’s closest analogues are other short thrusting weapons that straddle the line between spear and sword. Roman soldiers used the gladius, a short stabbing sword, in a similarly compact and aggressive formation. The Greek doru and Macedonian xyston, though longer and intended for different tactical systems, were part of the same evolution from throwing to stabbing spears. In Africa, the iklwa’s predecessor, the traditional assegai, and the Ethiopian shotel, a curved sword used for slashing around shields—also show regional solutions to similar combat challenges.
Legacy
The iklwa is inseparable from the image of the Zulu warrior and remains one of the most iconic weapons of southern Africa. Its introduction marked a shift in the character of regional warfare and contributed to the expansion and consolidation of Zulu power. Even after the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879, Zulu regiments retained the iklwa alongside firearms, viewing it as a cultural and martial emblem.
The term itself, “iklwa,” is said to come from the sound it made when withdrawn from a body, highlighting its visceral nature and fearsome reputation. Though largely obsolete by the late 19th century, it remains deeply embedded in Zulu heritage and is used ceremonially to this day.
Where to See
Authentic iklwa examples can be found in several museum collections. The British Museum in London holds specimens captured during the Anglo-Zulu War, while the Ditsong National Museum of Cultural History in Pretoria and the KwaZulu-Natal Museum in Pietermaritzburg also feature prominent displays. Some collections in Germany, France, and the United States also house Zulu weaponry from the colonial period.
Collector’s Guide
For collectors, acquiring an authentic iklwa involves careful assessment. Original examples from the 19th century often have iron blades with signs of wear, patina, and sometimes distinctive forging marks. The shaft will usually be carved hardwood, often bound in hide or sinew. Provenance is critical, as many modern replicas are produced for tourism or ceremonial use and may not reflect historical craftsmanship.
Collectors should verify authenticity through reputable dealers or auction houses with experience in African militaria. Documentation from colonial campaigns, such as Isandlwana or Rorke’s Drift, adds considerable value. Prices vary widely depending on age, condition, and historical context, with genuine 19th-century pieces often commanding high prices among specialised collectors.
Proper preservation involves avoiding moisture, especially for the iron blade, and storing the weapon in a stable, dry environment. Conservation should prioritise maintaining the weapon’s integrity without excessive cleaning or restoration, as these can compromise its historical value.
Here is a breakdown of recent and typical valuation ranges:
- Standard 19th-century iklwa (no direct provenance): £400 to £1,200
These are original examples with wear consistent with age but no specific historical link. - Ceremonial or regimental variants (with hide wrap, carving, or distinct regalia): £1,200 to £2,500
Often used in later 19th-century or early 20th-century ceremonial contexts, these pieces are valued for their decorative quality and rarity. - Provenanced pieces from the Anglo-Zulu War (e.g. Isandlwana or Rorke’s Drift): £3,000 to £8,000+
If tied to specific engagements or military figures, particularly with British officer documentation or regimental capture notes, prices rise considerably. Some examples exceed £10,000 when linked to major figures or iconic battles. - Museum-grade examples with exceptional condition or rare features: £10,000+
These are typically sold through specialist arms and armour auctions (e.g. Bonhams, Thomas Del Mar, Hermann Historica). Prices reflect rarity, craftsmanship, and historical importance.
Modern reproductions and tourist-market iklwas (often sold as Zulu spears) typically fetch under £100 and should be avoided by serious collectors.
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