A nice Zulu or Shona Ax ?
 

I recently picked up this ax which I believe to be either Zulu or Shona, based on the wire work; I'm leaning towards Zulu because of the tack work.
The ax belonged to the estate of Edward Frey, who was a collector and researcher of Oriental Arms. The addition of the leather loop is interesting as I believe it was influenced by European contact, so I am guessing late 20th Century.
As shown the ax has a broken piece on the head, but everything is firm, so as the previous owner I think I will leave it as is.

Hi
V nice item,
I would have taught it was earlier than late 20th century though
Was this a typo.
What would have gone on the opposing side to the blade where the spike protrudes.
I too would leave as is, a lovely un touched item with great wire work
Regards
Ken

Thanks, Ken. I was assuming 20th century because of the belt loop, which I don't believe is a traditional Zulu feature. I don't think anything was on the other end, except the wood; I think the metal shaft of the blade would have protruded out of the side.

the axe head itself does not look typically Zulu to me although the wirework of course does. The blade of the axe looks as if it has come from a European 18th / 19th century half moon food / herb chopper .

I agree, thanks for the input.

I think that the 'spike' is simply the tang end of this vegetable chopper blade which has been repurposed as an axe head after the wooden handle was removed.