Shield

ClassificationsArms and Armor-shields

Cultureprobably Ngombe

Dateearly to mid 20th Century

Made AtDemocratic Republic of the Congo, Africa

MediumSplit rattan cane and wood

Dimensions56 1/4 × 18 1/8 × 3 5/8 in. (142.9 × 46 × 9.2 cm)

Credit LineAnonymous Gift

Object number2017.10.142

DescriptionAs is true for many of the peoples of the Congo, warfare, hunting, and supernatural callings all give use to shields. Made from cross-woven from cane with a braided frame, these shields are surprisingly hardy. Simple geometric designs are painted on after creation with black pigment, a common decoration for shields throughout the Congo, but particularly among the Ngombe who most likely created this particular shield. The hourglass shape of the wooden handle on the reverse further indicates this. By the late 19th Century, warfare had been outlawed in the Belgian colony, so Ngombe society transitioned from celebrating great warriors to those who generally lived with great respect for community and ancestors. Proper care of one’s shield was an important marker of this.

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