Mandingo Shield
I just picked this little gem up and I'm assuming, perhaps incorrectly, that it's a ceremonial shield.
Are the terms Mandingo and manding interchangeable, or are they two seperate groups?
Until now, I've seen the manding swords with their distinctive leatherwork and likewise a form of knife and scabbard attributed to the same people, with several other knives reputed to be from nearby tribes often found in similar sheathes, making me suspect that their leather working skills are held in high regards for a considerable distance.
This shield is only about 19" across, part of the reason I suspected it may be ceremonial, such as a funiery piece, but in truth, it's the first time I've ever heard of a shield of the Mandingo (Manding?) in any contect.
Does anyone have any information on any of this that they'd care to share?
Mike
|