Ngombe Shield with Basketry

This Ngombe shield (56 x 22 in.), from the northwestern Ubangi region of the Congo, is made with basketry on wooden frame, with a wooden grip board. At first, shields such as this one, were used in war, but after the introduction of firearms they evolved to be used in staged public battles, to commemorate bravery during hunts and to honor ancestors. This shield is remarkably well preserved, apart from a few reeds missing on the fame and some darkened as one would expect over time. The fine condition of this shield is due to the fact that men who failed to maintain their shields and other warfare regalia lost considerable respect in their village. The simple, symmetrical designs on the face of the shield is woven with pearl-like knots and is a pleasure to behold.

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