This is a highlighted example of functional art indigenous weapons the Naga tribe people of Northeast India use. Traditionally used as a hunting, warfare, and ceremonial spear, the practical Naga spear becomes the cultural artifact of the tribe as deeply reflected in the warrior tradition of the tribe.
The spear has a very skillfully forged iron head that has a triangular-pointed tip. It has an iron socket that holds the long wooden shaft pretty well, into which it is inserted with firm grip. One unique feature about this weapon is the use of bark thread smeared with natural resin, tightly wound around the upper end of the shaft. This not only gives increased protection, but further adorns the spear with visual and textural appeal.
Two more such thin cane strips and two such plaited cane bands strengthen the shaft, revealing the nice part of the Naga people attaching great knowledge of utilization of local materials with that of their aesthetics. The lower portion of the shaft has a narrow tapering end, fitted with a conical iron cap that provides balancing to the weapon, and possibly could be used for striking.
Apart from the functionality that this iron spear achieves, it carries the weight of pride and masculinity among the Naga: it is usually carried about during dances and celebrations as well as initiation into the rites of passage. It's a testament of their skill in metalworking and their aesthetic tradition.