Rare 19th Century Gãschãn Shield
Rare 19th Century Gãschãn Shield.
The hide is incised with geometric patterns. Late 19th century, the period of colonial war with Britain. Large for these at 14” diameter of near flat form with raised center and up turned edge. The face tooled in basket work geometry. Reverse with hide hand grip retaining its original cloth wrap. Excellent with some edge distress including light marking from a British bayonet and bullet graze mended by its owner. Somalia lies on the Horn of Africa, literally the dividing line between Africa and the Arab countries. Historically Muslim, it was supported by the Arabic nations and the Ottoman Empire against England.
Somali warriors carried an iron spear, a short sword called a belawa, and a shield called a gãschãn. Typical small Somali shields are made from giraffe or oryx and are concealed with concentric circles and short parallel lines.
Likely a memento of the Sudan campaign. A particularly handsome example.
UK postage included.
YOU MAY BE ALSO INTERESTED IN
-
-
Ref: XXX - A Rare WW1 1916 Regimentally Marked Webley Revolver Holster.
A nice honest example.£145.00
