Battle shield
Ethiopia, Arussi
sold
EUR 850
Provenance
Erwin & Susanne Melchardt, Vienna, AustriaSize
D: 68 cm
D: 26.8 inch
Description
animal skin, thick black patina (mixture of earth and ox blood), two original repairs
The inhabitants of the islands of Gatame and Gidico in Lake Abaya are considered to be the creators of these shields. They usually received food, tools and other essential goods in exchange.
The shields were used by the Amarro, who were known to be particularly warlike, the Arussi and Gurage.