Authentic antique Ethiopian warrior's shield (Gasha), handcrafted from thick hippopotamus hide and shaped over heat to form a powerful domed surface.

Features include:

• Distinctive raised central boss with four riveted metal reinforcements.

Cross-hatched surface patterning, typical of highland Ethiopian craftsmanship.

• Original wood and hide-wrapped handle with traces of fiber bindings.

• Deep natural patina from age, smoke, and handling.

• Seen historically carried by Amhara and Oromo cavalry warriors, as shown in period photographs from mid to late 19th Century in Ethiopia.

Its also comes with and antique dagger with wood handle.

Good antique condition with age cracks, scuffs, and surface wear typical of 100+ years of age.

Handle intact and secure. No modern restoration.

All of our antique shields came from a very important Los Angeles collection of African and South Pacific weapons.