Title
Parrying shield (salawaka)
Region
Moluccas, Indonesian Archipelago
Object Type
Technique
Dimension
Object size: 113.0 x 21.0 x 14.0 cm
Accession No.
2018-01156
Collection of
Slender, hourglass-shaped, shields like this were used, together with long swords, in ceremonial dances as a prelude to battle or a head-hunting expedition. The geometric patterns are carved and inlaid with mother of pearl. The raised central medallion is inlaid with porcelain and symbolises the sun. It indicates the important status of the owner.
