Bamun Shield Large 01These Bamun shields originate from fighting shields used by warriors and are hand carved by the Bamun people of Cameroon from indigenous wood. The geometric patterns carved on the shields were designed to create confusion when fighting. Nowadays, the shields are used in dances during ceremonies and rituals. Stand is included. Please note stands may have minor imperfections.

The post has developed beautiful patina and wear over time

Shields are widely used throughout Africa forming an indispensable part of dances and ceremonies

They would have traditionally been worn on the head during ceremonies

They originate from the Marka people of Mali and are traditionally used in ceremonies dedicated to fishing and farming

South Africa in 2014 by photographer and guide Mike Sutherland

Often the bowls have a distinctive and unusual flared lip which is the result of an intensive process where the wood is softened with water and then bound with strips of leather which are tightened over a period of time until the desired shape is achieved

no two bowls will be the same

Floating above any wilderness in a hot air balloon is always a magical experience

Lebankgara

which in turn has created wonderful patina and ageing of the wood

it would have been used as a method of communication between communities

Kumu masks come from the Kumu people who inhabit the Ituri rainforest in the Eastern part of the Congo