Headdress (Esidai)

Label Text"Warriors' objects that are carried on a daily basis are next. Both the spear and shield are things that I would like to own for the rest of my life. You develop a very strong connection between yourself and the spear because this spear protects you from predators, from enemies, and so forth. The shield is made from buffalo hide, and you have to hold it so the lion can land on the shield. Then you have to slide the lion over your head, and sometimes the lion weighs about 400 pounds. Do that a few times and you can confuse him. The beadwork part of a warrior's costume is made by women, but each warrior paints the designs on his own shield." (Kakuta Hamisi, 2001)

Object number2000.6

Credit LineGeneral Acquisition Fund

Dimensions29 1/2 x 22 x 1/2 in.

MediumOstrich feathers, leather, beads and shell, button