Shield Amhara - Ethiopia - 1900-1910

Rare Ras Ethiopian Shield (Tafa Gasha) – Late 19th / Early 20th Century
Description:
Splendid and evocative traditional Ethiopian shield (Tafa Gasha), datable to the late 19th century and the first half of the 20th century. This specimen represents an important testimony of Abyssinian art and military culture, historically associated with the rank of Ras (the local chiefs and dignitaries) or used as a prestigious gift and ceremonial piece, sometimes issued to troops of the region's colonial forces.
The object features a domed convex circular structure, made according to tradition from sturdy hardened leather, animal hide, and frontally upholstered in dark/black velvet. The surface is richly adorned with a complex radial decoration in gold and brass, composed of finely pierced sheets, chased with geometric motifs and fixed by peripheral hemispherical studs. At the center stands the characteristic protruding domed umbone, surrounded by four smaller applied studs.
A piece of ethnic art with a strong visual impact, ideal for collectors of antique militaria, ancient weapons, and exceptional African tribal artifacts.