A Congo shield made of wicker, some damage from use. The shields represent an artistically impressive and socially important subcategory of African utilitarian objects. Shields were made of wood, wicker, and very rarely of metal. They differentiated one group from another in battle and identified military rank and social status. Shields were used not only in actual warfare, but also in practice and training, as well as in rites of passage. These powerful objects also convey a sense of dignity and prestige that was important to their wearers. In aesthetic terms, these kinds of wicker shields can be considered pure sculpture.
A Congo shield made of wicker, some damage from use. The shields represent an artistically impressive and socially important subcategory of African utilitarian objects. Shields were made of wood, wicker, and very rarely of metal. They differentiated one group from another in battle and identified military rank and social status. Shields were used not only in actual warfare, but also in practice and training, as well as in rites of passage. These powerful objects also convey a sense of dignity and prestige that was important to their wearers. In aesthetic terms, these kinds of wicker shields can be considered pure sculpture.
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.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
