Dogan Spear of Authority
Dogan / Mossi
French Soudan (Mali) - Mossi Kingdom - Upper Senegal and Niger, French West Africa (Burkina Faso)
Late 19th - Early 20th century (ca. 1890 - 1920)
Iron, brass, copper, wood
Blade: 35,2cm
Blade & Socket: 55,2cm
Butt Spike & Ring: 24,4cm
Overall Length: 192,4cm
Collection Date: 2019
Collection Number: 109

Ex. American Art Market (2019)

A large spear from the Dogan or Mossi people of West Africa. The spear is highly decorated which would have been used as a spear of authority showcasing prestige within the community. The iron blade is leaf shaped, broad at the base before tapering to a point. Both sides of the blade are highly decorated with stippled engravings along the the medial ridge that spans the entire length. There is a chip to the blade on one side.

The steel socket is also intricately decorated with linear engravings, copper and brass sectional rings. A brass diamond shaped panel is riveted to the socket on each side. A brass ring is looped at the end of the socket. Wooden shaft with an iron ring at the base. Socketed at the bottom is a hand forged iron butt spike.

An uncommon and complete Dogan spear with a lot of work placed into its detail. Made for an important individual of high status, possibly a Dogan or Mossi chief.

[1] https://www.africanarms.com/gallery?dogon-authority-full-iron-spear-staff

[2] https://www.africanarms.com/gallery?dogon-gr

[3] http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=24212

[4] https://www.africaandbeyond.com/rare-spear-dogon-people-mali-details.html