Large Arrusi / Oromo Hide Shield, Ethiopia

The Arrusi and Borana tribes, of the Oromo group of people from south Ethiopia uses heavy hide shields from Buffalo or Hipo skin.  Large circular shield with a central ridge encircled with radiant ribs and conical protrusions imitating in a way the bosses of Asian shields. The rear side is equipped with a thick hide handle.

Such a shield probably Arrusi is offered for sale. 26 inches diameter. Very well made with all classical ridges and ribs.

Very good condition. Light distortion and small losses and cuts on the perimeter of the shield.

For a similar shield see: "Boucliers d'Afrique, d'Asie du Sud-Est et d'Oceanie" from the collection of Barbier-Mueller Museum, page 104-105