This shield originates from the Toposa tribe, a Nilotic ethnic group native to South Sudan. They are mainly a pastoralists community with a recent history of war. They live in a hostile, harsh society because of their nomadic lifestyle characterized by conflicts and raids to their neighbours like the Nyangatom of Ethiopia, Karamojong, Jie, and Dodos of Uganda and Turkana of Kenya.
This is an example of a very beautiful Toposa shield with a unique design. These wooden shields are rare to find among the Toposa. It is well decorated with earth colours, it was one of our peculiar finds. It was used by the warriors during raids for defence. A narrow piece of wood runs down the centre of the length. It extends below the base of the shield. The centre was carved outwards to form a handgrip. The piece is carved from dry wood, has a dark brown patina and traces of usage. It also visible signs of old age and stains but still looks amazing.
- Material: Wood
- Condition: Good
- Age: Approximately 50-60 yrs
- Origin: Sudan
- SKU: SHI-038
- Weight: 2.5 kg
- Dimensions: 33.5 x 63 x 0.5 cm