240940 - Old Large African Maasai shield with decoration - Tanzania
Large Old African Maasai shield with decoration - Tanzania
Diameter: 90 cm high and 72 wide.
This shield is from begin 20th century and comes with a certificate of authenticity.
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. This prestigious sign is conferred only with the permission of a high-ranking chief.
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