Arussi Shield

Ethiopia

Early 20th c

28 inches high x 26 inches wide x 5 inches depth

Ex: St. Louis, MO collection

SOLD

The Arussi and Amarro tribes of southern central Ethiopia used dark circular shields made from buffalo and hippopotamus hide for defensive purposes. This exceptional hippopotamus hide shield is finely tooled with a thick embossed midrib with parallel lines, decorative knobs in relief and a robust, curved handle at the reverse. These sturdy, and thick walled shields were held horizontally by warriors.