Shield

Item number Id200 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

Public

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Data
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Description

Oval shield that has a rectangular boss (10 x 6 x 1 cm.) with the longest dimension parallel to the width of the shield and in the approximate centre of the vertical surface. Boss enclosed by geometric design of bands all approximately 2 cm. in width, separated by thick black lines. Series of six bands alternately natural and yellow ochre coloured, joined to form squares, surround the boss which is outlined by an oval band. Points of squares aligned parallel to the longest and widest axes of the shield, respectively. Final points of sixth square touch edges at either side. Top and bottom form points of new series of squares with this repetitive pattern incomplete. Undecorated dorsal surface is hollowed at the centre to form a vertically placed handle.

History Of Use

Used by men in fighting. Traditional method of painting the shields are for 2 men to work together on opposite ends of the shield.

Cultural Context

fighting

Iconographic Meaning

Squares represent joined boomerangs. Altough an item of everyday life, boomerangs have ritual meaning to certain groups, who associate the object with the power of an ancestral hero, or buleru.