Two Sudanese shields

[eftihis]

These shields came 50 years ago to Greece from Sudan. Are these real shields or decorative pieces? The dimensions are 65cm for the bigger and 40cm for the smaller (without measuring the wood, only the leather surface)

[Marc M.]

In my opinion, the real stuff.
Best regards
Marc

[Jim McDougall]

Absolutely authentic and excellent examples.
The first on left is likely Topasa People, South Sudan, from Greater Kapoeta region. Nilotic people , speak Arabic and Ng'atoposa languages.

Right, similar in style possibly Nuer, also S.Sudan, in Jonglei regions along Nile and Sobat rivers.

Hard to define these type shields absolutely with the diffusion of influences transcending tribal groups, but the center pole mount is key.

Both early 2oth century, many of these types collected in 1930s and in Pitt Rivers collections.

Just speculations based on online search but certainly appear S. Sudanese as noted.

[eftihis]

Thank you Marc and Jim!