This is a very rare late 19th century Yanktonai Sioux Knife Blade War Club. It measures 45 inches in length and features two large knife blades inset into the haft. They protrude 7-1/2 inches, making this a formidable killing weapon. The haft is made of chestnut wood and is adorned with hot file branding and brass tacks. There is one small stress crack from impact near the bottom blade. The club is in very good condition, with minimal wear. The "knife blade" war club is a variation of the gunstock war club, with a much slimmer, longer haft and knife blades inset into the haft rather than a lance blade or wide, iron spear point. There are approximately 20 known knife blade war clubs in any museums or private collections, all attributed to the Yanktonai Sioux of eastern South Dakota. This piece is circa 1860-1870 and is expertly carved. It was featured in the 2009 book "The Mark Francis Collection of American Indian Art" on page 132 figure 206. This is a super rare and exceptional weapon of the true Indian Wars period. Ex-Jim Dresslar/Mike Storey/Mark Francis collections.Dimensions: 45"L.

(Excellent).