Songye Rattan Shield, Democratic Republic of Congo

Rattan, split fine and laid in rows. A Songye shield is built like a well-made basket, and about as light as one has any right to be.

This one, from the Democratic Republic of Congo, is twentieth century, rattan and wood, a little over two feet tall. A smooth dark boss sits in the middle, bound in with cord. Along the sides, a few strands sit a little out of line. The reddish color runs deeper toward the edges.

Look closely. You will see the hand of whoever tied each one.

Mending, in this case, is part of the design.