Ethiopian Shield-Form Ornamental Disc

Pale gold and glowing, with a thick peg and a dotted hem.

This shield-form ornamental brass disc is from Omo Valley, Ethiopia, East Africa, and dates to the 20th century. Peoples of the Omo Valley in southwestern Ethiopia are widely known for body adornment, and metal ornaments often help express age, status and community. Round plate in a light, buttery gold with a stout central peg. Two holes sit near the top, and two more at the lower right. Fine lines of punched dots circle the edge, and a few dark smudges mark the surface. It is 0.7 inches deep and 4.3 in diameter.

Bright, simple and as pleased as a coin.