SHIELD called Goko

Kirdi Culture, Northern Cameroon

First half of the 20th century

Iron

Iron shield cut and hammered with a geometric decoration organized around an important cruciform motif, with a median umbo, referring to the stylized figure of the caiman.

Double take on the reverse.

The making of this shield was reserved for the kila, the blacksmith.

Illustrative photograph: Marcel Griaule (1898 - 1956), Kirdi warrior with his shield and helmet , 1932 © Musée du Quai Branly.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON

Ref. LP: 3207