In Africa shields are coveted and paraded as a badge of honor in the same manner as the warriors spear. Used offensively and defensively, the shield plays a vital part in African life. In Kenya, for the Kikuyu, initiation ceremonies for young boys are a significant tribal event. Initiation is the prelude to entering an elevated social status, perhaps to warrior. Some aspects of the initiation process such as the display of shields in initiation dances make reference to this militaristic expectation of initiated men. Initiation shields are constructed of wood or bark. The shield offered here is carved from a solid piece of wood by a specialist craftsman for display during a dance known as ‘muumburo'. Adhering to tradition the shield has an armhole on its’ inner face so it can be manipulated by flexing the arm rather than being held by the hand. The Kikuyu initiation shield is decorated with non figurative motifs on the outer surface and inside as well. The designs are not arbitrary and have to be agreed upon. The pattering can be varied according to the initiation period and shields used during the same period were not necessarily the same. These shields are usually passed down to younger relatives who would scrape off the old decorations and replaced with the insignia of their initiation group. Though not used much a slight patina has formed around the back grip. This type of shield is not commonly found or offered. It is quite a find! Please click photo for enlargement! See additional photos below. When OFFLINE click button to leave a message! Dimensions: 26 inches tall x 4 1/2 inches deep x 16 inches across. **For a complete inventory listing please go to the 'Index' section on the Navigation Bar to your right** |
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| The shield is held fast by inserting ones forearm through the hole. Please click photo for enlargement! |
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| Please click photo for enlargement! |
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| Please click photo for enlargement! |
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