VERY RARE 19th Century Authentic Argentine Bola ca.1850

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VERY RARE Authentic Antique 19th Century Argentine Bola, ca. 1850Ex-Private Collection Up for auction is a very rare and authentic period Argentine Bola dating to the mid-19th Century, ca. 1850. It is unknown whether this particular bola was used by gauchos (Argentine cowboys) or Argentine Indians, but its construction is consistent with the materials and methods used by the indigenous Indians of Argentina, and its estimated age could allow for either possibility with equal likelihood. The weapon itself was originally developed and made by Pre-Columbian Indian societies in South America for hunting, but the Spanish documented its use in combat as well. As Spanish colonial society evolved (into Argentine society) in the early 19th Century, the Argentine gauchos began using the bolas to trap herd animals in addition to wild game.This particular bola was authenticated and dated by a former curator of one of the larger museums in San Diego, and would make a wonderful addition to any private or curatorial antique weapons collection. The three "balls" - or pods - average 2 1/4 inches (5.7 cm) in diameter and appear to be made of (wrapped or covered) stone. The weaving work that holds each in place is impressive, tight and secure, and has remained so for over 150 years. This weaving, in turn, allows for the double-strand braided rope, made read more

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