South African North Nguni Blond Rhinoceros Horn Prestige Knobkerrie
A Rare South African North Nguni Blond Rhinoceros Horn Prestige Knobkerrie
Smooth honey coloured patina
19th Century

Size: 57cm long - 22½ ins long / 6.5cm dia. 2½ ins dia. (head)
Smooth honey coloured patina
19th Century

Size: 57cm long - 22½ ins long / 6.5cm dia. 2½ ins dia. (head)
The white rhinoceros has a blond coloured horn which is much larger than that of the black rhinoceros. During the 19th century rhino horns of exceptional length were rare, but could still be seen. One blond horn was measured to be an amazing 1.58 metres long.
Knobkerries fashioned from rhino horn were used to denote status and authority as can be seen in the 1833 engraving by E. Casalis of Zulu chief Mosheshwe formally holding one as a sceptre. They were an essential part of a chief’s regalia functioning both as a staff of office and as a symbol of personal dignity.
Knobkerries fashioned from rhino horn were used to denote status and authority as can be seen in the 1833 engraving by E. Casalis of Zulu chief Mosheshwe formally holding one as a sceptre. They were an essential part of a chief’s regalia functioning both as a staff of office and as a symbol of personal dignity.
South African North Nguni Blond Rhinoceros Horn Prestige Knobkerrie
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