Very dramatic deeply concave oval shaped African shield from Ethiopia. The animal hide is scraped free of hair and then placed over a shaped board with protrusions which will allow for greater protection in warding off blows. The edge is tightly rolled and there are added tool marks for heightened decoration. The handle is tied and knotted into place at a slight angle to allow for a more comfortable hold.
Shield is 21 inches at the widest point and about 6 inches deep...
The Yoruba Tribe of Southwest Nigeria are well known for the dramatic beadwork. Beaded Yoruba crowns were formed from hides scraped free of hair. and were worn only by kings for ceremonial occasions, Beads are considered sacred to the Yoruba...
This African head rest is carved on the side supports with endless knot configuration. Additional carved detail is on the underside of the curved neckrest area. From Somali, the headrest has wonderful sculpture quality and is a good ethnographic tribal piece for display. Small crack in base goes less than 1/4 inch into wood...
From Ibaden, Nigeria this traditional Yoruba cloth was woven by the men of the village. It was worn tied around the waist of the woman, and used as a baby carrier. This piece was brought back from Africa in 1961. Hand loomed of cotton fibers, it has a wonderful soft color and texture. It measures 10" wide and 68" long including fringe.