The Masai man who made this shield is from southern Kenya, in the Mariakani region. He made it following a traditional pattern and it is the traditional size. With a reputation as fierce warriors and an arrogant demeanor, the Masai have largely managed to stay outside the mainstream development of Kenya and still maintain their own traditional culture and their cattle herds. The central focus of their culture is their almost mystical unity with their cattle, affecting almost every aspect of their pastoral, nomadic lives. Some young warriors have traveled into town in recent times, looking for salaried work, where their fierce reputation precedes them. They are eagerly hired as guards, as thieves rarely will bother a home or establishment that has a Masai guard. |