MAASAI WARRIORS HIDE PAINTED SHIELD, KENYA OR TANZANIA

Maasai shield (also known as an elongo), a traditional piece of equipment from the Maasai people of southern Kenya and northern Tanzania.

Materials: constructed from a wooden frame with buffalo hide stretched and sewn over it using leather strips.

Design and Meaning: decorated with painted geometric designs in red, black, and white pigments. These patterns, known as sirata, traditionally indicated the owner's clan and warrior status within their society.

Symbolism: Beyond their utilitarian use in warfare and hunting, these shields are powerful symbols of identity, strength, and protection, sometimes even being blessed with charms (entasim) to safeguard warriors.

Construction: features an elliptical or convex shape with a central mid-rib and a wooden handle attached to the back.

Item Size: Height: 98cm, Width: 60cm, Depth: 17cm, Weight: 5Kg

Condition: Good - Refer To Images

233525+1

Location of item: 2 Fairford Street, Bassendean, WA, Australia

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