Ethiopian Ras Shield - Ethiopia

The image shows an Ethiopian Ras shield (also known as Gashan), a ceremonial and defensive high-ranking object dating from the late 20th century.

These shields were symbols of social and military prestige; the diameter and richness of the decorations often reflected the owner's rank.

Made of thick leather (often hippopotamus or buffalo) treated to be extremely durable, covered in black velvet.
The surface is richly adorned with plates and studs in silver or gold-plated silver, finely repoussé and engraved.

It has a circular shape with a strongly raised center (umbone) and a protruding rim.

Origin: Ethiopia (Abyssinia), typically associated with military leaders and nobles called "Ras"

Object coming from the residence of an Italian notable who for many years lived and worked in Ethiopia, probably gifted to him by some important Ethiopian figure as a sign of friendship.

Probably not for military use but for representation and parade.