Sidamo Leather Shield, Ethiopia

A rounded shield with a long central ridge and rays of tiny studs radiating out

This shield is Sidamo, from Ethiopia, East Africa, and dates to the early 19th century. African shields were never considered merely practical, since they blended function with fine art, identity and prestige, and were sometimes danced during ceremonies to commemorate battles, funerals and other events. A circular, dark gray object with a raised ridge at its center and radiating lines of small pointed bumps. The edge is slightly uneven. The surface appears hard and creased, with a darker center and a slightly pitted finish. It is 24 inches in diameter.

Rays of little spikes, arranged with a lot of enthusiasm.