H x W x D: 171.6 x 9.1 x 9.5 cm (67 9/16 x 3 9/16 x 3 3/4 in.)
Type:
Sculpture
Geography:
South Sudan
Date:
Early to mid-20th century
Label Text:
This type of narrow wood shield is associated with the Nilotic peoples of the Sudan--particularly with the Dinka. Its main function was to deflect an opponent's blow and was effective against fighting sticks and clubs. These weapons were used more commonly to settle internal disputes rather than in external warfare.
Description:
Wood pole shaped shield of tapering prism form, widest at the center where a hand grip is carved out.
Provenance:
Collette Ghysels, Brussels, -- to 1997
Denyse and Marc Ginzberg, Rye, New York, 1997
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