Carved wooden dance shield (ndomi) c. mid 20th century
kikuyu
minneapolisinstituteofart
pigment, wood
circular oval feature
toned paper
pigment
pottery
3d printed part
stoneware
ceramic
wood
round circular shape
watercolour bleed
watercolour illustration
armor
watercolor
arm
This carved wooden dance shield, known as an *ndomi*, was created by the Kikuyu people of Kenya in the mid-20th century. The shield is made of wood and is decorated with geometric patterns in red and black paint. It has a distinctive, slightly elongated oval shape, with a small opening at the top, allowing for a grip. This carved dance shield, now housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, is a beautiful example of traditional Kikuyu artistry.
Comments
African shields, while primarily functional objects used in warfare, also played a role as dance regalia during funerals and initiations, and served as status objects and symbols of identification. Because they were often made for ostentatious display, their appearance—size, decoration, color, and materials—was of vital importance. As such, shields can be appreciated as sculptural expressions of creativity and craftsmanship, blurring the line between utilitarian skill and fine art.
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