PAIR OF OLD ZULU TRIBE METAL GAUNTLETS CALLED UBUSENGA

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Offered for sale from my private collection of Zulu artefacts is this SUPERB genuine pair of old Zulu metal gauntlets (known as 'ubusenga'). They were collected from a rural homestead in central Zululand during one of my visits to the Anglo-Zulu War battlefields (see photos below). These were hand made, and date to around 30-40 years old. The gauntlets are flexible, being made from wire wound around a core of cattle hair. Different coloured wirework was used to create an ornamental effect, and the gauntlets were usually fastened with sets of press-studs. The gauntlets were worn both on arms (lower and upper) and legs, and were worn by both Zulu warriors and Zulu women. It is RARE these days to find these in Zululand, especially complete pairs. (For further reference see the book 'Zulu Treasures', page 96, and page 104 for illustrated examples). Great patina and condition, a genuine old Zulu artefact - NOT a tourist piece! Offered for sale with a $1 opening bid and NO RESERVE! The group photograph below shows other Zulu items currently for sale on ebay. IAN WILKINSON COLLECTION: Ian has established one of the leading collections of Zulu artefacts in the UK, the collection concentrating mainly on old Zulu weaponry. Ian has a keen interest in the history of the 1879 Anglo-Zulu War, and is a frequent visitor to the battlefields read more

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