Ballam

Name/Title

Ballam

Entry/Object ID

171; Full Code: 171.7.33-PA-IM

Tags

Pole Arm, Ruturaj Farm Product

Description

This is an authentic Antique Indian Spear, commonly referred to as a Sang or Bhala, likely dating to the 19th century. This specimen represents the "Extended Range" tier of your collection, featuring a high-utility triangular spearhead mounted on a seasoned bamboo shaft. It is a masterclass in organic engineering, where the natural resilience of the shaft is used to deliver the precise piercing "process" of the forged head. Core Components & Engineering The Head (Triangular Leaf Profile): Forged from high-carbon steel, the head features a robust triangular cross-section with a prominent central mid-rib. The Process: In your professional framework, the mid-rib is a structural gusset. It ensures the head does not buckle or "telescope" upon a high-velocity impact against a hard target (like a shield or quilted armor). The Socket: The head is attached via a long, integrated steel socket that sleeves over the bamboo. This distributes the kinetic "input" of a strike across a larger surface area of the wood, preventing the shaft from splitting. The Shaft (Iron-Wrapped Bamboo): Constructed from a single length of high-density bamboo, specifically chosen for its high tensile-to-weight ratio. Iron Reinforcement: The shaft is reinforced with rhythmic iron bands along its length. Historically, these rings served a dual purpose: they prevented the bamboo from checking (splitting) in dry climates and provided a series of mechanical "stops" for the wielder's hands during rotational maneuvers. The Finish: The steel shows an honest, dark historical patina with scattered pitting, matching the "Field-Grade" standard of your 19-inch Dhaal.

Made/Created

Manufacturer

Unknown Artisan

Date made

circa 1650 - circa 1700

Time Period

17th Century

Ethnography

Cultural Region

Region

South India

Dimensions

Dimension Description

7.5'

Length

18 in

Material

HCS

Acquisition

Acquisition Method

Purchase

Place

City

Udaipur, Rajasthan