Shield - Wood, Leather - Maasai - Tanzania

Shield – Wood, Leather – Maasai – Tanzania

Name: Shield - Wood, Leather - Maasai - Tanzania
SKU: 60.1698
Availability: OutOfStock

€ 495,00

Out of stock

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About this object

Unique Maasai shield from Tanzani. Wonderful large shield with great patina of age. Dimensions: 99x80x6 cm! Pastoralist Maasai from the grasslands of southern Kenya and northern Tanzania used such shields in warfare, hunting, and rites of passage. A buffalo hide sewn onto a wooden frame is the convex elliptical canvas onto which an artist traced rich polychrome geometric patterns: two large crescents symmetrically positioned on either side of a central vertical band composed of alternating triangles. The motifs identified the owner's position within a complex lineage system. Called sirata, many of these symbolic motifs have fallen into disuse and are poorly understood by contemporary Maasai. Several elements relate this shield to a proven warrior herder. The red and blue dyes, traditionally obtained by mixing different types of clays and ashes, were the prerogative of accomplished individuals. The red patch on the proper right side of this shield can be identified as a sirata el langarbwali, a badge that signifies great bravery in battle. This prestigious sign is conferred only with the permission of a high-ranking chief. Similar item can be found in the MET museum in New York: https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/311103 For shipping outside EU-zone please contact first higher shipping costs may apply due to the size of this item.

Object	Shield
Ethnic group:	Maasai
Country:	Tanzani
Material:	Wood, Leather
Estimated period:	Mid 20^th century
Sold with stand:	No
Dimensions:	99x80x6 cm
Weight:	2500 gram
Condition:	Good condition, used with some signs of wear

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