Sikali Horse

Subject: Sikali Horse Fri Jul 22, 2016 8:07 am

Apologies if this question has been dealt with before but try as I might I have been unable to find any previous discussion!

It concerns the Sikali Horse.

In the Film 'Zulu dawn' as the Sikali horse are crossing the Buffalo (Mzinyathi) River by Rorkes Drift, they appear to have long saddle slung 'holsters' holding what looks like throwing spears. I have since seen depictions of them with shoulder slung 'back quivers' which also appear to hold spears and knobkerries.

Can anyone comment on the authenticity of these?

Subject: Re: Sikali Horse Fri Jul 22, 2016 9:47 am

There are illustrations of both. As you say there are sketches of the 'back quiver', I cant locate those at present, but there were two by Lt Farlie that clearly show the saddle holster method.
Cheers

Subject: Re: Sikali Horse Fri Jul 22, 2016 12:27 pm

C. E. Fripp in some of his works certainly depicted the back quiver, Frank so elequently refers to it.

Please see The Graphic, Pearson's Magazine and Victoria's Harvest for examples.

John Y.

Subject: Re: Sikali Horse Fri Jul 22, 2016 2:03 pm

Ah! Thank you gentlemen.

Do we know if these 'Saddle slung' or 'Back quiver' held weapons were intended to be used whilst mounted or were they purely for dismounted use?

If they were for use whilst mounted, is there any evidence of training for such?

Posts : 2872 Join date : 2010-06-02

Welcome NB.

Here are some engravings from the Graphic as mentioned by John.
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Steve

Subject: Re: Sikali Horse Fri Jul 22, 2016 7:20 pm

Thank you rusteze, I like the Africanised headwear particularly! Wink

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