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Hôtel des Ventes de Troyes

314 - Oromo shield Ethiopia Provenance: Private collection, Switze…
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Estimate €80 - €120
Sale commission
Description
Oromo shield Ethiopia Provenance: Private collection, Switzerland Material: leather Height: 38 cm Visible signs of wear and age, a few missing pieces. Oromo leather shields are both utilitarian and highly symbolic objects, closely linked to the warrior culture and social structures of this people. Made from the thick leather of a large herbivore - generally buffalo or hippopotamus - they were were fashioned by specialised craftsmen, the leather being hardened, hammered and sometimes moulded to surface, often slightly domed. Circular in shape, these shields offered effective protection against arrows and spears while remaining relatively light, making them suitable for both foot and mobile combat. mobile combat. In addition to their defensive function, these shields also played an important role in the staging of war. of warfare: struck with a spear or stick, they were used to produce noise to intimidate the intimidate opponents or coordinate warriors. They were used not only in combat, but also in initiation ceremonies, parades and war dances. warrior dances, they expressed the status, bravery and identity of their wearer. Although characteristic of the Oromo of the plains, such as the Arsi, similar shields can be found other groups in southern Ethiopia, revealing a set of technical and martial traditions martial traditions shared across the region.
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About the sale ARTS OF AFRICA & OCEANIA: Three exceptional family collections
Auction location
Auction time 06/22/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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