|
In 1985 I traveled to four West African nations to document the mission work of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Two days before I was to leave for Nigeria, I purchased this shield at a market in Monrovia, Liberia. The next day, Gen. Thomas Quiwonkpa attempted to overthrow the government of Samuel Doe. He was eventually caught, executed, and butchered. It was two weeks before I was allowed to leave the county.
I had to leave camera equipment behind but was able to get this shield out of the country. Getting it through customs at JFK was a real trick. The customs officer was sure it was elephant hide, which is illegal to bring into the country. I convinced him it was from a bush cow. Later, a curator at the Indianapolis Museum of Art confirmed that it was probably elephant, made in the mid to late 19th century, and appraised it at $800. I have since lost the appraisal.
Similar shields are selling for $700 to $3,200 on the web and at auctions. I paid $400 for it in 1985. This shield is very rare due to its age. The handle is not attached and the leather lacing is very brittle due to its age. Several cuts appear along the edge. Not sure if they are the result of age or the result of use in battle. It is decorated with raised nibs on the front.
It would best be displayed in a wall hanging case.
- Warrior shield from the Wandala Tribe in the West African nation of Cameroon.
- Mid to late 19th century. Purchased in 1985 in Monrovia, Libera. 34” x 25”
- Very rare.
|
