Shield ·  D. R. Congo, Azande · ID: 3037045

Description

basketry with wooden frame and grip board backside, dark brown ground with patterns in light brown, min. dam., missing parts, traces of usage and abrasion;
shield patterns identified shield bearers during battle and owners were expected to maintain the “dignity” of their shields. After the troops return, the royal prince who had ordered the raid distributed captured enemy shields, as a means of showing his benevolence. He awarded them to outstanding warriors who regarded such a shield as a mark of distinction.

Comparing literature

Zirngibl, Manfred A. & Dieter Plaschke, Afrikanische Schilde, München 1992, p. 104