Ethiopian Shield-Form Ornamental Disc

Golden and spotted like a well-worn coin, with a peg standing up in the middle.

This shield-form ornamental brass disc is from Omo Valley, Ethiopia, East Africa, and dates to the 20th century. Discs and shield shapes appear in many African ornament traditions, where a flat polished surface catches the light and gives the wearer a bold, graphic outline. Thin round disc with a slim, upright peg at its center and a few small holes near the edge. The surface is mottled in golden brown and deep purple tones, with a slightly bent, uneven rim and visible tool marks. It is 0.75 inches deep and 5.5 in diameter.

Humble disc, one peg, and plenty of patina.