This shield comes from Irkisongo section one of the many Maasai sections. The shield is made of buffalo hide, pigment, leather straps and wood. Along the edges of this shield are wood frames sawed with leather straps. The wood frame provides a better shape and balance to the shield. The handle on the inside is made of hardwood known as Oltiasika. The pigment on this shield, in particular, shows marks of Irkisongo section of Iromboi region. This shield was traded across sections. Warrior Ole Sipoi from Ilaitayiok clan of Irkaputiei section contributed this shield.
Buffalo hide, pigment, goat sinue, and wood
39 1/2 x 28 x 5 in. (100.3 x 71.1 x 12.7 cm)
General Acquisition Fund
2000.3
Not currently on view
Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.
