Heavy 19th century Nguni War axe

A lovely old heavy bladed War axe from South Africa from one of the Nguni tribes. Probably Swazi or Sotho in origin, axes of this type were traded to and favoured by Zulu warriors, as the Zulus did not manufacture their own. The steel angular blade is thick and substantial unlike some of the dance or ornamental axes used at the same period, this is a true fighting piece. The head retains its original wirework binding, the wooden shaft is long and intact, with a good untouched age patination throughout. Mid/late 19th century.