A javelin point from Somalia, Africa

I purchased this small javelin point via eBay last month. I paid about what I imagine it's worth. Somali pieces seem to be pretty desirable, based on other auctions i've watched. This little point definitely passes the made-for-use test. Overall, it's solidly made from thick steel, and is quite sharp. I've noticed that northeast African points tend to be simple in comparison to the more baroque designs of central Africa and the Sahel. The reverse barbing is a dramatic feature, even if it impedes functioning of the main barbs. I imagine these light javelins were carried by mounted warriors in sets of three or more. I suspect they were carried for status/cultural reasons, but they would make effective hunting or military weapons.

Length (overall): About 8 1/2".

Length (blade/point): A bit over 6".

Length (other dimensions): Socket is 2". Both sets of barbs are about 1".

Width at widest point (blade/point): A hair over 1".

Width (other dimensions):

Materials: A solid piece of steel. No forging flaws evident. Some bits of steel remain at the base of the barbs. Slight discoloration, but no pitting or extensive rust. Judging from pictures and other examples on eBay, shaft was a light-colored hardwood, probably glued in place with gum?Shaft was probably on the shorter side, maybe 5'. The butt of the spear would have had a simple coil of brass wire or a strip of iron cut from a sheet.

The ferrule or socket is tiny with a very narrow opening (1/2"). The shaft would have to have been tapered a great deal, and then glued in place. The point is decorated with brass or copper wire, now tarnished. There are two separate bands of intricate woven wirework.

The blade is slightly lens-shaped in cross-section without a median ridge. The point appears to have been sharpened a little, but not a great deal. The point and edges are quite sharp. File marks present. I like these small, ornate javelin points from central and eastern Africa - I have one other old Central African javelin point I hope to describe shortly.