Scarce Chinese Tiger trident polearm

A large and scarce Chinese polearm, magnificent in size and workmanship. Tiger spears were originally exactly that, used to counter the ferocity and weight of a grown tiger, during the 19th century they became absorbed into the large range of weapons used militarily, and found their way into use by special Chinese soldier units.

This example is better made than most, with a lovely shaped ferrule below the trident blades. each outer prong is flattened and extremely strong, the central spike four sided. A brass decorative rivet to each side. Long steel haft, and a wooden shaft possibly original.