Description

A large and heavy single-edged spearhead of a type that appeared exclusively in Vietnam.

The long blade starts narrow, then abruptly widens, from where it gradually tapers to a sharp point. The smooth side is edged from around where the spine on the other side of the blade is raised. It has a long, narrow groove running under the spine from the raised section to near the tip. It is engraved with stylized engravings in typical Vietnamese style on either side.

The peculiar design seems optimized for a strong thrust. Due to the size and weight it may have been primarily intended against elephants.

The head is tanged, mounted in a wooden shaft, only the top portion of which remains. The shaft is reinforced with sheet iron, which in turn are reinforced with a series of iron bands. The end of the shaft is rounded and weathered and appears to have been cut off the original shaft a long time ago.

Dating

Vietnamese polearms typically have brass sleeves. The iron on this one, the style of the ornamental cutouts at the bottom, and the rendition of the floral motifs on the blade all make me think it's probably quite old. Probably 18th century.

Very large and heavy. Impressive piece.