Salawaku shield - Lot 169

Salawaku shield The Salawaku is a long, hourglass-shaped shield. The shield, including the handle, is carved from a single piece of wood. The shield is slightly curved from top to bottom. At the rear, a high rib can be seen running the full length, part of which becomes the handle. The front of the Salawaku is painted black with soot and plant juice. It is inlaid with mother-of-pearl. The term Salawaku means "protection" and "repulsion": a reference to the supernatural protection of the ancestors; or "miss and catch". Salawaku can be used as a wedding gift. The Salawaku is carried in the left hand, with a spear or sword in the other. Halmahera, Indonesia, early 20th century. Wood, mother-of-pearl. Length: 74 cm.