Shield (lava lava) c. 20th century

Curator: Looking at this fiber-art sculpture, one might almost overlook its practical purpose as a shield. What are your initial impressions of it? Editor: Honestly? It resembles an oversized, very stylish placemat. It gives off a kind of organic, minimalist vibe. Although, you are right: it is surprisingly menacing once I consider what its function once was! Curator: Yes, and shields throughout history and across cultures embody potent symbolism far beyond mere protection. The cultural context reveals this particular shield, called "Shield (lava lava)", made around the 20th century, utilizes the fiber of local flora and possibly some wood. In various indigenous communities, it has been interpreted not just as defense but also a representation of identity. What might those dark linear patterns suggest to you? Editor: You know, they seem to abstractly mimic pathways or journeys. I keep seeing patterns in patterns – a micro and macro sense of experience, almost mirroring human development. Curator: Indeed! Motifs like these may embody narratives woven from collective memories, values, or historical events central to their society. Perhaps some social class delineation existed to mark a transition from one class or caste to another? Editor: So this would communicate rank visually, the shield becoming a literal statement in battles, not just protection! Makes one ponder what is left unspoken as well. It is fascinating how much is coded in simple designs that someone completely outside their cultural context, like me, might completely overlook. Curator: Exactly! Even in this "simple design" are the values that define society and culture from those in the same geographical place! And with that, we have scratched at only some of the cultural heritage presented to us from our Indigenous American Shield (Lava Lava). Editor: What a wild convergence of domestic simplicity and battlefield boldness! Thank you for sharing your time!