Zulu Wood Knobkierrie or Club, Based

A round head on a long, patient stick. Politics once, sculpture now.

Zulu carvers of South Africa made this knobkierrie, a throwing and fighting club, in wood in the 20th century. Such clubs are often carried as walking sticks and are commonly associated with status as well as defense. A smooth, near-perfect sphere sits atop a straight, slender shaft. The wood is a deep chocolate brown, glossy at the head and a little duller along the shaft. A small square black base holds it upright.

About 20 inches tall. Dark, plain, and dignified in a corner.