Zulu Shield Set: Ancient Weaponry
The shield comes in a set with a Spear, Knobkerrie (club) and the Centre Staff.
Shield Cow Skin: 9" Inches High
Centre Staff: 12" Inches High
This set originates from the KwaZulu Natal region in South Africa, home of the great Shaka Zulu.
This is typical of the shield he would have used.
Traditional Zulu shields have become sought after items for collectors all around the world and
there are only a few skilled traditional Zulu tribesmen left making these weapons.
The shield is tanned and treated for export purposes and makes for an excellent wall hanging.
Collectors and Africana lovers alike are now using Zulu shields in their ethnic home decor designs.
King Shaka revolutionized Black warfare by introducing the short stabbing spear for highly effective damage in close combat.
The shield was an essential part of the weaponry of the Zulu Nation.
In the days of their great King Shaka, every Zulu warrior was armed with a shield, knobkerrie, one or more
throwing assegais (type of spear) and a stabbing spear.
In close combat the knobkerrie would be used on the head to render the opponent temporarily defenceless,
followed by the killing blow with the spear into the chest area.
Shaka’s revolutionary tactics were utilised during the Anglo Zulu Wars by King Cetshwayo in the legendary destruction of the
technologically and militarily advanced Imperial British Army at Isandhlwana here in Kwazulu-natal at the end of the 19th century.
A defeat which, reverberated the length and breadth of the mighty British Empire.
Leather is made from animal skins or hides which have been chemically treated to preserve quality and natural beauty.
The chemical procedure used to ready raw animal hides for use is called "tanning."
A piece of hide or skin which has been tanned produces strong, flexible leather which is able to resist decay and spoilage.
The majority of leather made today is produced from tanned cattle hides.
This is not a factory situation, but one in which the animal is slaughtered respectfully and with due reverence
to the ancestors. Every part of the creature is utilized.
The meat is roasted barbecue style and the skin is dried and tanned and used in the ancient tradition for making
shields, garments, house décor and shoes etc.
This product is being sold for decorative purposes only and you must be over 18 years old.
Disclaimer: This is a handcrafted item from Nguni cowhide and therefore unique as no two are exactly alike.
When purchased we will supply you with this item if in stock or a replica which is a close to exactly the same as
any handcrafted product can be. We guarantee that the size, material and quality will be same.
The only possible variation is in colour and pattern as each animal is unique.
Nguni cattle are prized by the Zulu as an indication of family wealth and social standing,
and are characterized by their multi-coloured skin and distinctive patterns.
This shield will be shipped from Durban the capital of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa.
All Shipping is insured to give you 100% cover protection.