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Shield, late 19th-early 20th Century
Amarro people; southwestern Ethiopia
Animal hide; 26 1/8 x 25 1/2 x 6 in.
2003.60.13
Gift of Ms. Martha Ann Bryson
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The phrase “looks can be deceiving” applies to this African shield. It may appear plain-looking, but its creation and use are anything but simple. The shield is crafted from the hides of the rhinoceros, buffalo or hippopotamus in a laborious and time consuming process for the use of the Amarro, one of many peoples that inhabit the Southwestern region of Ethiopia. Once the shield was in its finished form, it served many purposes besides providing protection in war including providing necessities, and playing a role in celebrations.
Reputed as a fearsome people who strove for recognition through war, the Amarro did not manufacture their own shields. Instead, the island peoples of nearby Lake Abaya created them. The process of making a shield was very involved. Once a hide was obtained, the shield maker cut and mounted the hide on a concave surface to give the shield its shape. Next, the hide was repeatedly pounded, stretched and oiled at intervals. Each shield’s shape and design is slightly different, indicating that this step of the process also involved some artistic planning and creativity. Finally, the shield would be left to dry. Once dried, shields were ready for trade to the Amarro. The manufacturers of the shields most often received food in exchange for their creations. Therefore, trading shields provided food for nourishment and implements for protection and expansion, basic needs for any human beings.
The use of the shield did not end after warring was over. With the death of an enemy came celebration. Upon the return of warriors, men recounted and rejoiced in their victories by painting their faces, spears and shields with a mixture of earth and ox blood. This paint played an important part in their celebrations and served to show the fearsome nature of Amarro warriors.
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