Shields from Central Africa used with the throwing knives
Definition
The shield is the ultimate defensive weapon. It is used to protect against
projectiles such as spears, arrows, and throwing knives, but also from
sword and club attacks in close combat.
Appearance
The shape of the shield follows its function: for melee combat, it would
be small and manageable, and when needed to protect from projectiles,
it would be large enough to provide reasonable shelter. Shields were
widespread in Africa and the materials used were varied: wood, rattan,
leather, and iron.
– Wooden shields are often carved as a single piece except when a handle,
fashioned of a different material, is added. Wood can also be used in
braided slats or assembled together with rattan or other vegetable fibers.
– Wicker shields are composed of rattan or braided rush; they most often
have a wooden handle. The handle can be large or small, either covering
almost the entire back surface or being not much more than a stick;
it is attached with vegetable fibers going through the shield.
In Central Africa, some of these shields are decorated with subtle designs,
signs of chiefly recognition, or tribal identity. A metal protective disc may
be present on some models in the center of the front side.
There is sometimes also a wicker or iron disc on the inside of the shield,
used to hang throwing knives.
– Leather shields vary in shape and size. They are made of leather from
buffalo, cow, elephant, hippo… The thick leather is soaked so that it can
be manipulated into the shape desired for the shield and to form designs
in relief. Sometimes the fur of the animal is preserved, and sometimes
the leather is painted or dyed. The handle is also made of leather or
a wooden stick attached with leather strips.
– Iron shields correspond with a preexisting leather type.
They are made from imported cans and are therefore newer.