Tikar Tribe Long Wooden Shield with Cowrie Shells

Tikar Tribe Long Wooden Shield with cowrie shells – These traditional shields created by the Tikar people serve both functional and cultural purposes within Tikar society. They are typically carved from a single piece of wood and the wood is carefully selected for its strength and durability. Tikar shields are known for their intricate and detailed carvings. The surface of the shield is often adorned with symbolic patterns, geometric motifs, or representations of animals and mythological creatures. These carvings hold cultural significance and may convey messages about the wearer's identity, status, or clan affiliation. The shields are designed to be lightweight and portable.

About the Tribe

The Tikar are a Cameroonian ethnic proto-Bantoid Tikar-speaking group. They are primarily found in the Western Grassfields (Bamenda Plateau) and Eastern Grassfields (Fumban) and the Tikar plain of Bankim (Upper Mbam). According to oral history, the Tikar originated in the Arabian peninsula and migrated to the Nile Valley region of modern-day Sudan near Meroe. They then migrated from Sudan to Ntumu, Cameroon's present-day Tikar Plain, and intermarried with the locals. Those who claim Tikar ancestry in the Bamenda Grassfields include Nso and Kom, Bum,Bafut, Oku, Mbiame, Wiya, Tang, War, Mbot, Mbem, Fungom, Weh, Mmen, Bamunka, Babungo, Bamessi, Bamessing, Bambalang, Bamali, Bafanji, Baba (Papiakum), Bangola, Big Babanki, Babanki Tungo, Nkwen, Bambili and Bambui.

Dimensions: H:23.2" W:9.4" L:2.8" Weight: 4.0 lbs.