Description
Traditionally used in battle for protection, zulu shields have recently been used in sacred ceremonies, such as weddings and funerals, crafted by craftsmen in the KwaZulu Natal region. Tall enough to cover the wearer’s body, this long, pointed oval shield is hand-crafted from wood and Nguni skin, beautiful African cattle hide. Zulu shield construction is considered a specialized craft, whereby the hide was taken from the back of the animal, pegged out into the sun to dry, then buried under manure for two or more days before being pounded with stones to make it more malleable and centered with a wooden stick. Two columns of small horizontal slits are cut into the face of the shield with supple pieces of woven leather for double thickness.
