South African War Shield

Description: South African War Shield - Red Beads South African War Shield 20th Century A South African shield adorned with beads and cowrie shells is a stunning and culturally significant artifact, reflecting the rich heritage and artistic traditions of the region’s indigenous peoples. Crafted from wood, the shield serves as both a symbol of protection and a work of art. The cowrie shells, meticulously attached to its surface, elevate the shield from a utilitarian object to a powerful symbol of status, spirituality, and identity. Historically, shields like these were used by various South African groups, including the Zulu and Xhosa, during ceremonial occasions rather than in combat. The wooden base of the shield is skillfully carved, often featuring a slightly convex shape to deflect blows, while the edges may be reinforced for durability. The entire surface is then intricately decorated with rows of gleaming cowrie shells, forming geometric patterns or symbolic designs. Cowrie shells hold deep cultural significance in many African societies, symbolizing wealth, fertility, and protection. Their use on the shield indicates the owner’s high status and may also be associated with spiritual beliefs, as cowries were often used in divination and considered to be imbued with protective qualities. The juxtaposition of the organic, glossy shells against the rich, dark wood creates a visually captivating contrast, highlighting the artisans’ attention to detail and aesthetic sensibilities. Such a shield would have been a prestigious item, displayed during important ceremonies and rites of passage to assert power and identity. Today, it stands as a testament to the intricate craftsmanship and cultural depth of South African artistic traditions, blending functionality with profound symbolic meaning. South African War Shield - Red Beads South African War Shield 20th Century A South African shield adorned with beads and cowrie shells is a stunning and culturally significant artifact, reflecting the rich heritage and artistic traditions of the region’s indigenous peoples. Crafted from wood, the shield serves as both a symbol of protection and a work of art. The cowrie shells, meticulously attached to its surface, elevate the shield from a utilitarian object to a powerful symbol of status, spirituality, and identity. Historically, shields like these were uséd by various South African groups, including the Zulu and Xhosa, during ceremonial occasions rather than in combat. The wooden base of the shield is skillfully carved, often featuring a slightly convex shape to deflect blows, while the edges may be reinforced for durability. The entire surface is then intricately decorated with rows of gleaming cowrie shells, forming geometric patterns or symbolic designs. Cowrie shells hold deep cultural significance in many African societies, symbolizing wealth, fertility, and protection. Their use on the shield indicates the owner’s high status and may also be associated with spiritual beliefs, as cowries were often uséd in divination and considered to be imbued with protective qualities. The juxtaposition of the organic, glossy shells against the rich, dark wood creates a visually captivating contrast, highlighting the artisans’ attention to detail and aesthetic sensibilities. Such a shield would have been a prestigious item, displayed during important ceremonies and rites of passage to assert power and identity. Today, it stands as a testament to the intricate craftsmanship and cultural depth of South African artistic traditions, blending functionality with profound symbolic meaning. × × × Shipping info Click the Shipping & Payments tab above the listing description for more info FREE Shipping Click the Shipping & Payments tab above the listing description for more info! Additional delivery notes PICK UP OPTION Sorry, our items are NOT available for pick-up. PAYMENT Immediate payment is required upon selecting "Buy It Now" or upon checking out through the cart. We accept payment via U.S. PayPal accounts and all Major Credit Cards, Debit Cards & Google Pay. We are legally required to collect sales tax in those states and localities where we maintain a physical presence (nexus). The applicable amount of sales tax charged to an order will be calculated based on the shipment destination's state and local sales tax laws. Thank you for shopping with us on eBay! Additional Information No additional information at this time Ask seller a question You might also like South African War Shield - Red Beads and Ivory Cowries Cameroonian Beaded Mask - White, Blue Adorned Mask Congolese Kuba music instrument South African Fertility Doll - Blue and Orange Beaded Contact To contact our Customer Service Team, simply click the button here and our Customer Service team will be happy to assist. Ask seller a question © DOUMBOUYA ART WORLD Shipping & Payments Shipping is FREE for this item Payment Accepted Payment Methods Immediate payment is required upon selecting "Buy It Now" or upon checking out through the cart. We accept payment via U.S. PayPal accounts and all Major Credit Cards, Debit Cards & Google Pay. We are legally required to collect sales tax in those states and localities where we maintain a physical presence (nexus). The applicable amount of sales tax charged to an order will be calculated based on the shipment destination's state and local sales tax laws. Thank you for shopping with us on eBay! Returns Returns are accepted Items must be returned within 30 days of the auction ending Buyer will pay for return shipping. eBay integration by

Price: 390 USD

Location: New York, New York

End Time: 2025-02-02T14:37:02.000Z

Shipping Cost: 0 USD