Shield

ClassificationsArms and Armor-shields

Cultureprobably Sukuma

Datelate 19th Century

Made AtTanzania, Africa

MediumLeather and wood

Dimensions46 7/8 × 26 × 4 3/4 in. (119.1 × 66 × 12.1 cm)

Credit LineAnonymous Gift

Object number2017.10.141

DescriptionThough the lobe-shaped shield of the Sukuma is far better known, this buffalo hide shield is also found among this largest tribal group of southern Tanzania. Setting themselves apart from other groups in Tanzania, for at least the past 200 years the Sukuma only ever existed as loose clans without a central ruling structure. The Sukuma are an agrarian society. Curiously, there is no supporting frame for this shield save for the central beam. This is something seen in Sukuma’s ceremonial shields, but unexplained for a shield which likely served a more utilitarian function. The dome-shaped protrusion at the center of the shield allows for the bisecting wooden beam to be grasped.

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