Shield

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Culture Olo

Title Shield (Paraku)

Date 19th or early 20th century

Medium Wood and fiber

Dimensions Object: 40 × 28 1/2 in. (101.6 × 72.4 cm)
Overall: 40 x 29 1/2 in. (101.6 x 74.9 cm)

Credit Line Eskenazi Museum of Art, Indiana University

Accession Number 76.127.1

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About this Work

The shields of the Olo peoples are characterized by their curved vertical edges, and in the case of this example, the curving of the top and bottom of the shield as well. Made from a lightweight but thick wood, these shields are decorated with incised designs typically consisting of parallel lines and spirals. While it is unclear what the designs represent, the form--with spirals at the top, bottom, and center--is common, and a similar design has been found in the ceremonial houses of the area.

Provenance
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Provenance research is ongoing for this and many other items in the Eskenazi Museum of Art permanent collection. For more information about the provenance of this artwork, please contact the department curator with specific questions.

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Cite this Page
"Shield | Collections Online." Collections Online. Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art, Indiana University, 2025. https://artmuseum.indiana.edu/collections-online/browse/object.php?number=76.127.1