a traditional Bamiléké shield (No reserve price)

Initially, these round shields formed an essential part of the armament of the warriors of Central Africa. Beyond their defensive function, they carried great symbolic and spiritual significance, reflecting prestige and social status within the tribe.

The black-and-white geometric motifs, carved hypnotically, were not purely decorative: they were specifically designed to induce a sense of vertigo and to stabilize or disorient the opponent during battles. Today, these shields are no longer used for war but remain present in ceremonies and traditional dances, and have become highly prized ethnic art pieces for interior decoration.