Zulu Wood Knobkierrie or Club, Based

No ball at the top this time, just a hooked knuckle of wood.

Zulu carvers of South Africa made this club in wood in the 20th century. Clubs with a bent, knob-like crook are commonly grouped with knobkierries, and are associated with carrying and display as well as defense. Instead of a round head, this one bends at the top into a small, rounded hook, like a bent wrist. The shaft is long, straight and polished smooth, in a warm reddish brown. A little wear shows along the sides where it has been held.

About 20 inches tall on a black base. Subtle, as weapons go.