Chawa SHIELD
Oromo Culture, Ethiopia
First half of the 20th century
Skin
Diameter: 77 cm
(Native Restorations)

Circular shield made of thick hide, decorated with a central crest with radiating ribs and punctuated with bosses around the entire circumference. Some ancient indigenous repairs are visible and testify to the use of the shield.

The reverse is raw and centered with a thick handle.

These shields were made of hippopotamus or sometimes buffalo hide. Selected cut stones and elongated elements were placed hot on the ground according to the desired design. The cut piece of hide covered the composition and dried, taking on its relief in the sun. Some were then oiled or pigmented.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON

LP. 6294